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Cibitoke : distribution of weapons to the Imborenakure, the population in anguish

A wave of concern has engulfed inhabitants of the province of Cibitoke, in northwestern Burundi, due to the massive presence of young Imbonerakure armed and dressed in military uniforms. Observed especially during the night, these members of the youth league of the ruling party, the CNDD-FDD, are perceived by the population as a potential source of insecurity and disorder.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

The commander of the Cibitoke military camp, Lieutenant-Colonel Ezéchiel Ndihokubwayo, rejects these allegations, stating that the inhabitants would have mistaken these young people for regular soldiers. He assures that the situation is under control and calls on the population to remain calm.

A distribution of weapons in four districts

According to local sources, weapons of different calibers as well as military uniforms were distributed to young Imbonerakure from Friday, February 14 in four districts of Cibitoke : Mugina, Mabayi, Rugombo and Buganda, all located on the border with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Testimonies collected on site indicate that former combatants from the former CNDD-FDD rebellion would also have received this equipment. According to some sources, this initiative is motivated by the deterioration of the security situation in eastern DRC and by the fear of possible attacks from the north.

The commander of the 112th infantry battalion of Cibitoke and the head of the CNDD-FDD youth league for the new expanded constituency of Bujumbura are said to be responsible for transporting weapons to these districts, according to local information.

Increased surveillance at the borders

Residents also report a reinforced presence of Imbonerakure along the borders of Ruhwa (with Rwanda) and Rusizi (with the DRC). Armed and carrying out patrols day and night, these young activists are worrying the population, who fear possible excesses.

An octogenarian met on site fears criminal acts in particular : « People who illegally hold weapons could be tempted to use them for theft or intimidation. »

Asked about these accusations, Lieutenant-Colonel Ndihokubwayo and Déo Nsabimana, head of the CNDD-FDD youth league in the new constituency of Bujumbura, denied any distribution of weapons and called on the population to remain calm. They also urged residents to report anyone likely to disturb public order.

Persistent tensions

Despite these denials, the situation in Cibitoke remains tense, fueled by rumors and the population’s concerns. In an already fragile regional context, the emergence of unofficial armed groups could increase tensions and raise fears about the stability of the province.

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Imbonerakure and former CNDD-FDD fighters in a military parade in Cibitoke (SOS Médias Burundi)