SUMMARY

In 2006, a peace agreement with the aim of ending the Burundi conflict was signed, stipulating the demobilization of Palipehutu-FNL forces and the transformation of the organization into a political party. Implementation was fraught with difficulties, however, and in July 2007 Palipehutu-FNL withdrew from the peace process. The leadership stated they did not want a return to war but had left for internal consultation, as well as in protest against perceived problems with the implementation mechanism and the South African facilitation.

The decision to abandon the demobilization process resulted in a split within Palipehutu-FNL, with a group of members challenging Agathon Rwasa’s leadership and accusing him of insincerity about the peace process. The new faction called itself “Lovers of Peace” and was led by Lt Colonel Nestor Banzubaze (alias Banes). In early September, clashes broke out between the two factions. Members of the “Lovers of Peace” faction (Palipehutu-FNL – LP) said they were tired of war, and wished to be demobilized. Meanwhile, the Palipehutu-FNL leadership accused the government of having created the faction in order to weaken the group ahead of renewed negotiations, an accusation fueled by the fact that Palipehutu-FNL – LP received government protection against the main faction.

The non-state conflict between Palipehutu-FNL and Palipehutu-FNL – LP is first included in UCDP data in 2007. In September that year, clashes between the parties resulted in 26 battle-related deaths.