The Burundian army denies any collaboration with the “Wazalendo” self-defense group in North Kivu
As part of the East African Community (EAC) regional force, the Burundian army is deployed in North Kivu province to help restore state authority in that region currently occupied by the M23 rebel group supported by Rwanda. However, recently Rwandan media have spread false information according to which the Burundian army is collaborating with the self-defense group “Wazalendo” and even providing them with weapons.
In a categorical denial, Colonel Floribert Biyereke, spokesperson for the Burundian army, stressed that these allegations were unfounded and slanderous. He affirmed that Burundian troops work with professionalism and have never collaborated with any armed group. He described these accusations as “serious insults” against the Burundian military and declared that they were motivated by ulterior intentions.
It is important to note that the Burundian army is engaged in an official mission to restore state authority in North Kivu and has no interest in collaborating with armed groups. These unfounded claims are likely aimed at discrediting the efforts of the Burundian army and sowing confusion in the region.
Therefore, it is essential to take this information with a grain of salt and verify its veracity before releasing it. It is also crucial to support the efforts of regional forces to restore security and stability in the North Kivu region.
Overall, it is important to remain objective and not be influenced by false information. Burundian troops are engaged in a legitimate mission and deserve to be supported in their efforts to restore peace and security in this troubled region of North Kivu.