Burundi’s President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, has issued a warning regarding the escalating conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), stating that it could potentially spark a regional war. His remarks were shared on social media on Saturday.
The situation escalated as the Rwanda-backed M23 group has taken control of Goma, the main city in eastern DRC, and continues to advance southward. This offensive is the latest in a long history of conflict in the region, which has resulted in approximately six million deaths over the past three decades.
President Ndayishimiye expressed that “If Eastern Congo does not have peace, the region has no peace.” He indicated that the ongoing conflict could lead to widespread war in the region, particularly if Rwanda continues its aggressive moves. He added, “If Rwanda continues to make conquests… I know that war will even arrive in Burundi.”
The M23 group is currently advancing towards the city of Kavumu in South Kivu, which is notable for its strategic military airfield. The Congolese army has established its defensive line just 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu.
In response to the ongoing violence, Burundi has deployed troops in eastern DRC as part of the East African Community force, which is intended to support the Congolese military. However, the remaining contingents of the force have faced accusations from the DRC and local residents, alleging collusion with forces opposing Kinshasa.