Burundi : the opposition denounces restrictions on political space as elections approach

A few months before the legislative and district elections in June, the opposition coalition Burundi Bwa Bose denounces an increasingly restricted political climate. In a recent statement, it accuses the authorities of hindering its activities and reducing the democratic space, thus compromising the holding of free and fair elections.

INFO SOS Médias Burundi

The statement mentions bans on meetings and the dispersal of activists.

One recent incident involved a meeting planned in Karusi province (central-eastern Burundi) that was canceled at the last minute by local authorities. Despite providing an advance notice in accordance with legal requirements, the provincial governor not only banned the event but also reportedly ordered the dispersal of activists.

The coalition spokesperson, Kefa Nibizi, is outraged by this decision, believing it illustrates a desire to restrict the activities of opposition parties.

Difficulties amplified by fuel shortages

In addition to the bans on meetings, the opposition faces another obstacle : the fuel shortage, which hinders travel and the organization of political activities. According to Kefa Nibizi, this fuel crisis further complicates access to the electorate and could affect the smooth running of the electoral process.

Intimidation and growing pressure

In addition to these administrative restrictions, the Burundi Bwa Bose coalition also denounces acts of intimidation. In Ngozi (north), a representative of an opposition party was reportedly threatened by the youth affiliated with the ruling party, the Imbonerakure.

The CDP (Council of Patriots), another opposition party, reports similar difficulties. Its chairperson, Anicet Niyonkuru, claims that local authorities in Makamba (Kibago-sud district) have obstructed their activities, preventing meetings from taking place. He calls on the Ministry of the Interior to strengthen training to ensure equal rights for all parties involved in the election.

An appeal to the authorities and the international community

Faced with these restrictions, Burundi Bwa Bose and the CDP urge national authorities and international organizations to intervene to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process. They call for urgent measures to ensure freedom of expression and assembly without fear of repression or intimidation.

For their part, Burundian authorities have not yet officially responded to these accusations. However, the government has previously affirmed that all political parties have the right to conduct their activities in accordance with applicable laws.

As the election approaches, these tensions risk fueling fears of a contested electoral process, jeopardizing the credibility of the elections and the country’s political stability.

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CENI employees show empty ballot boxes to voters before voting begins, May 2020 (SOS Médias Burundi)