In a statement, AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said Burundi 'serves as a rear base and command centre' for the coalition forces of the Kinshasa regime in its conflict with the rebels.
'All the bombings carried out by Soukhoï-25 fighter aircraft and drones against densely populated areas and along the entire front line are being coordinated from Burundi,' Kanyuka stated on Sunday.
Kanyuka emphasised that Burundi is not only involved in planning and directing the attacks, but its troops and Imbonerakure militia also participate directly in attacks against Congolese civilians.
"Burundi is also deploying its troops and Imbonerakure militiamen in South Kivu, where they are integrated with the FARDC, the FDLR and the Maï-Maï Wazalendo," he added.
AFC/M23's deputy coordinator, Bertrand Bisimwa, Bertrand Bisimwa described the actions of Burundian forces as constituting crimes against humanity and war crimes.
Since October 2025, Burundian troops have reportedly blocked all roads connecting residents in the Minembwe area of Fizi, Uvira, and Mwenga territories, restricting access to markets and healthcare services.
Brigadier General Gaspard Baratuza, spokesperson for the Burundian army, confirmed to the BBC last month that the roads had been closed, accusing local Banyamulenge communities of collaborating with armed groups, claims rejected by human rights organisations.
Clashes between Burundian forces and AFC/M23 intensified from November 26 in Mwenga territory, as Burundian troops attempted to seize areas previously held by the DRC government coalition. On November 30, AFC/M23 reported heavy Burundian casualties, with bodies hastily buried in pits and the wounded transported to Kisangani in Tshopo province for treatment.
The situation in eastern DRC remains volatile, raising concerns over the escalating involvement of foreign forces and the increasing toll on civilians, amid international efforts to resolve the conflict between the Kinshasa administration and the AFC/M23 rebels.
IGIHE
