Agathon Rwasa Questions Burundi’s Military Role in Eastern DRC

Bujumbura, 17 March 2026 - Burundian opposition figure Agathon Rwasa has criticized his country’s military involvement in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, arguing that it does not serve the interests of the Burundian people. Speaking in an interview with a local media outlet, Rwasa said the deployment of Burundian troops is driven by the interests of the ruling CNDD-FDD party, rather than national priorities. “I believe Burundi’s involvement in the Congo war serves the interests of the authorities, not the people,” he said. Rwasa also questioned the manner in which Burundian troops are reportedly operating in the DRC, claiming that if their mission were legitimate, they would act openly under their own identity. He further warned that the conflict risks escalating and spreading closer to Burundi’s borders, particularly given the instability in eastern DRC. The Burundian government maintains that its troops were deployed to combat armed groups opposed to it, including RED Tabara, FOREBU, and FNL, which are said to operate in South Kivu. However, Rwasa dismissed this justification, arguing that such operations do not explain the presence of Burundian forces in other areas, including North Kivu. The remarks highlight ongoing debate within Burundi over its military engagement abroad, as the conflict in eastern DRC continues to draw in regional actors.