A few months ago, a man widely known for his role in defending his people, Rugabire Shanguri, also known as Rukara, returned to the frontlines after spending nearly nine years in exile in Uganda.
He made this move after learning that his country, especially the Minembwe region—was once again under attack by enemies relentlessly hunting down and killing Banyamulenge civilians.
In a powerful and unusual letter shared with our journalists by some Banyamulenge leaders, Rukara stated:
“Upon learning that our country was invaded by enemies of our people, we could no longer remain silent. We chose to intervene. The reason you see us here is simple, we came to defend you. We will fight this enemy to the very end.”
These words deeply moved many people. They offered a renewed sense of direction to the Banyamulenge community, which had been living under constant insecurity, and reminded them that no one will defend them except themselves.
In early February 2025, Rukara left Uganda, where he had sought refuge in 2016, and journeyed to Mulenge. He did not arrive alone. He was accompanied by a group of brave young men, including Ngeneye Irakoze, Birori Mugabe, Ndabarishe, and many others who joined forces to defend their people.
They launched their campaign in Kaziba on February 12th and 13th, where they fought fiercely and even managed to take control of the area.
Although they later withdrew, the battle became a symbol of a major shift in mindset among those who had long remained passive witnesses to the atrocities committed against the Banyamulenge.
Following that, Rukara and his team continued to fight in various locations: Bijombo, Rusuku, Mulima, and Marango. Everywhere they went, they expelled enemy groups that had formed a coalition of government forces (FARDC), FDLR, and other fighters like Wazalendo and Burundian troops.
Reports from the frontlines confirm that in every region these young men passed through, a significant degree of control was restored to the civilian population.
Even though they occasionally withdrew, it is confirmed that these were strategic military decisions, such as repositioning or preparing for new offensives.
As of now, Rugabire and his fighters are based in Rugezi, an area they captured at the end of March. They arrived after intense battles involving multiple factions, but they insist that they will leave nothing behind as long as the enemy remains in their country.
What they are fighting for is clear: to protect their people, ensure their safety and survival, and return their country into the hands of those who truly care about it.
Although Rukara is not a government-sanctioned soldier, he has reshaped the narrative around the role of young Banyamulenge men in history.
His words were echoed during an internal ceremony in Minembwe:
“Our country is dying; we could not remain silent. Put aside everything you’re doing, and let us all stand united in defending our homeland.”
To many, these words are more than just speech—they represent a new legacy.
