Cibitoke: Massive mobilization of Imbonerakure at the border

While the security situation in the DRC is deteriorating, a wave of mobilization of young people affiliated with the ruling party is being observed in Burundi. According to several sources, these Imbonerakure are being deployed to fight the M23, despite equipment and training deemed insufficient.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

A major mobilization of young people affiliated with the ruling party was observed last Wednesday in several localities near the Burundi-DRC border. Gathered at the provincial office of the CNDD-FDD and at the Buganda stadium, these young people, originally from the provinces of Cibitoke, Bubanza and Bujumbura, are receiving instructions before being sent to the DRC.

According to several local sources, they are equipped with light and heavy weapons, as well as military uniforms. Their mission : to cross the border to fight M23 rebels. They were reportedly promised a bonus of 200,000 Burundi francs, in addition to material and financial assistance for their families.

However, concerns are growing among these young fighters. Poorly trained and poorly equipped, some fear confrontation with the M23 rebels, known for their experience and mastery of the terrain. Several have reportedly already deserted before even being sent on a mission.

A security source confirms that the Imbonerakure have not been spared the heavy losses recently suffered by the Burundian army. Faced with the advance of the M23, which now controls Bukavu and Kamanyola, elements of the Burundi National Defense Force (FDNB) and the Imbonerakure have reportedly started to turn back towards Burundi.

Furthermore, some financial promises made to the fighters before their deployment have reportedly not been kept, reinforcing the feeling of discontent in their ranks. A security source indicates that severe sanctions would be planned against deserters, whether military or civilian.

Asked about this information, the head of the CNDD-FDD youth league in the extended province of Bujumbura refused to confirm or deny the mobilization with a view to leaving for the DRC. He nevertheless admitted the presence of many Imbonerakure in the party offices, stating that they are receiving training there focused on patriotic values.

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