9 October 2007
Bujumbura — FNL dissidents led by Colonel Nestor Banzubaze, nicknamed Banes, reached Rugazi commune on Sunday. These dissidents clashed with combatants loyal to Agathon Rwasa twice last week. They had been stationed in Matongo, the native commune of their leader Banes, before crossing the Kibira forest to Rugazi where they intend to start talks with the government of Burundi.
More than 800 FNL dissidents are stationed at Rugazi. The national security forces ensures the security of these dissidents who claim to be "for peace", but not that of those dissidents who follow Banes. Many people, including those who are not in reality combatants, continue to flock to Rugazi in search of the demobilization incentives.
The government of Burundi and the mediation team are suspected of being behind the schisms within FNL, the last rebel movement that is still in the bush although a ceasefire signed a year ago is still in effect. Sources indicate that the Burundian ambassador to the United Nations in New York has already demanded the United Nations to assist the FNL dissidents by providing them food.
The regional Initiative for Peace in Burundi has already decided that the implementation of agreements between the government of Burundi and the PALIPEHUTU-FNL must be completed before 31 December 2007. After this date, leaders of FNL who are in Tanzania will be expelled.
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