The Burundian military has begun relocating heavy weapons from its bases in Bujumbura to the headquarters of the Third Battalion in Gitega. The move is reportedly linked to growing tensions within the national army.
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Weapons being transferred include 120mm and 82mm mortars, BM-21 rocket launchers, and other major artillery systems.
Leadership Changes Spark Speculation
The relocation comes shortly after President Évariste Ndayishimiye made significant changes in the military leadership. He dismissed army spokesperson Brig. Gen. Gaspard Baratuza and military logistics chief Col. Ernest Musaba.
Musaba was replaced by Col. Thierry Kabura, and just two days after Kabura took office, the order was given to move military equipment out of Bujumbura.
Convoys of Military Trucks Seen Transporting Equipment
On April 24, about 50 military trucks were reportedly seen carrying weapons and equipment from Muha and Muzinda military camps in Bujumbura. Additional equipment was also moved from the heavy weapons brigade in Mwaro.
All of the convoys were said to be heading to the Third Commando Battalion base in Gitega.
Depot Explosion and Internal Disputes Raise Concerns
The transfer follows an explosion at an ammunition depot in Bujumbura about a month earlier. The blast killed more than 13 people and caused major damage.
Initially, the army claimed the explosion was caused by an electrical fire. However, President Ndayishimiye later contradicted that statement, saying there was no electricity at the site.
Analysts say the relocation may also reflect tensions between President Ndayishimiye and Chief of Defence Forces Prime Niyongabo, along with disagreements involving other senior officers.
Congo Deployment Adds to Burundi Army Tensions
Additional frustration inside the army is reportedly linked to the deployment of Burundian troops to eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where forces are fighting AFC/M23 rebels.
Some military officials reportedly view the war as politically motivated, expensive, and responsible for unnecessary loss of soldiers’ lives. Bujumbura, which borders South Kivu, hosts units responsible for border security, meaning instability there could have wider regional consequences.
One analyst concluded that transferring heavy weapons to Gitega may be intended to keep them away from units considered unreliable.
