Rwandan authorities have provided assurances to Burundians residing in the country, emphasizing that no retaliatory measures will be taken in response to Burundi’s recent closure of its border with Rwanda.
Alain Mukularinda, the deputy spokesperson for the Rwandan government, conveyed the message during a press briefing in the capital, Kigali, on Friday. He urged Burundians in Rwanda to continue their daily activities without worry, assuring them that the decision by Burundian authorities to close the borders would not have any adverse effects on them.
Mukularinda stated, “Those who want to return to their country are free to leave, and even those who want to visit Rwanda are welcome because the Rwandan border is open. Rwandans have no issues with their Burundian counterparts.”
In a precautionary note, Mukularinda advised Rwandans against traveling to Burundi, emphasizing that if a country expresses a lack of acceptance, there should be no consideration of visiting.
The border closure was initiated by Burundi on Thursday, citing accusations that Rwanda supports Burundian rebels based in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Rwanda, in response, expressed regret over Burundi’s unilateral decision, emphasizing that it contravenes the principles of the East African Community.
