Rwanda Denies Arming Burundi Rebels Behind Deadly Grenade Attack

Rwanda has categorically denied allegations by Burundi that it is arming and training rebels responsible for a recent grenade attack that injured 38 people in Burundi's capital, Bujumbura. The attack, which occurred on Friday at a crowded bus station, left five people seriously injured and has further strained relations between the two East African nations.

Why this matters: The escalating tensions between Rwanda and Burundi have the potential to destabilize the entire region, drawing in neighboring countries and sparking a wider conflict. The international community's efforts to promote dialogue and restraint will be crucial in preventing further violence and maintaining regional stability.

In a statement released on Sunday, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo dismissed the accusations, stating, "There is something clearly wrong going on with Burundi for its government to accuse Rwanda for recent grenade explosions in Bujumbura, a situation we have absolutely no connection with and have no reason to be involved in." Makolo called on Burundi to "solve its own internal problems and not associate Rwanda with such despicable matters."

Burundian authorities have accused six individuals, aged between 28 and 56, of involvement in the grenade attacks. The interior ministry alleges they are part of a foreign-supported destabilization network armed and trained by Rwanda. However, the accused rebel group, RED-Tabara, has denied any role in the attacks, emphasizing their policy of not targeting innocent civilians.

The strained relations between Rwanda and Burundi have a complex history dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Tensions have escalated in recent months over Burundi's support for the Democratic Republic of the Congo's armed forces in their conflict against the Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye has previously accused Rwanda of aiding the RED-Tabara rebels, a claim consistently denied by Kigali.

The United Nations has warned about the risk of a full-scale war erupting between Rwanda and the DRC, which could potentially draw in neighboring Burundi. As the accusations and counter-accusations continue to fly between Rwanda and Burundi, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation in this volatile region.

Key Takeaways

• Rwanda denies Burundi's allegations of arming and training rebels behind a grenade attack in Bujumbura.
• The attack injured 38 people, including 5 seriously, and has strained relations between the two nations.
• Tensions between Rwanda and Burundi could destabilize the entire region and spark a wider conflict.
• The dispute is linked to Burundi's support for the DRC's armed forces against Rwandan-backed M23 rebels.
• The international community is urging restraint and dialogue to prevent further escalation in the region.