Burunga : launch of the CNDD-FDD campaign, between glowing results and popular doubts

SOS Médias Burundi

Burunga, May 19, 2025 – The CNDD-FDD officially launched its electoral campaign for the legislative and district elections in the southeastern province of Burunga on Friday, May 17. At this rally, Révérien Ndikuriyo, secretary general of the ruling party, displayed a firm tone that sparked mixed reactions. “The country is not a piece of bread given to a crying child; you have to earn it,” he declared, a statement that some interpreted as a refusal to consider a political change, even in the event of defeat.

This campaign is part of an electoral sequence that officially kicked off on May 9 in Gitega, the country’s political capital. However, on the ground, only CNDD-FDD candidates are visible in almost all provinces. Other political parties, as well as the opposition coalition Burundi bwa Bose, are struggling to mobilize, particularly due to the fuel shortage that has paralyzed the country for nearly 52 months.

Contested promises in the health sector

Among the achievements highlighted by Ndikuriyo : free healthcare for pregnant women and children, the construction of district hospitals, and the future provision of ambulances. He also asserts that the malaria control program is a priority, while praising the health insurance card (CAM).

But criticism is rife : “Hospitals lack equipment, medicines are scarce, and patients have to purchase expensive treatments from private pharmacies,” denounce several residents. As for the CAM, it is considered inaccessible : previously priced at 3,000 francs, its price can now reach 50,000.

Mixed results on infrastructure and the environment

The CNDD-FDD also welcomes the construction of infrastructure, including schools, markets, and a stadium dedicated to former President Pierre Nkurunziza, presented as a “national model.” However, some observers believe these projects primarily benefit a minority. The stadium, for example, is seen as a private initiative with no direct benefit for the population.

The same applies to the “Ewe Burundi Urambaye” reforestation program. Ndikuriyo claims that all the hills have been reforested. This statement is contradicted by Makamba residents, who say they have seen no concrete results despite the program’s more than decade-long existence. Suspicions of embezzlement weigh on some of its components.

Mining and energy sector : citizens are cautious

The government claims to have restarted several closed mines and introduced new laws to better regulate mining. However, the population remains skeptical, considering these announcements repetitive and without any real impact on their living conditions.

Call for a “unanimous” vote

President Évariste Ndayishimiye has also issued numerous messages to voters. He calls for full support, stating that “even opponents will vote for the CNDD-FDD.” For him, Burundi is already an “advanced” country where houses are being built and where investment in the economy must now be prioritized.

Marginalized opposition

Faced with this show of strength by the ruling party, the opposition parties denounce their marginalization. They point to the CNDD-FDD’s failure to fulfill its promises since coming to power, and a campaign marked by glaring inequality in access to logistical and media resources.