Burundi : Catholic bishops call for inclusive elections and an end to political tensions

Bujumbura, May 26, 2025 – On Sunday, an important message from the Conference of Catholic Bishops of Burundi was read in all Catholic parishes across the country. Delivered by Bishop Bonaventure Nahimana, President of the Conference, this message calls on citizens, authorities, and political parties to work together for democratic, peaceful, and inclusive elections, an essential condition for sustainable development.

The bishops first recall that the right of every citizen to participate in elections in their own country is a fundamental civic obligation. They urge Burundians to demonstrate unity, beyond their differences, to guarantee the nation’s best interests.

The Conference of Catholic Bishops also makes a clear appeal to Burundian authorities at all levels : to act impartially, to guarantee justice, peace, and security for all, without discrimination, and in strict compliance with the law. This stance aims to strengthen trust between institutions and citizens.

Addressing political party leaders, the bishops urge them to raise awareness among their activists about respecting differences and to avoid any behavior that could disrupt the peace, serenity, and development of the country. They reiterate that tolerance and dialogue are essential for peaceful and lasting coexistence.

Recalling their historical role, Catholic bishops have always been key players in elections in Burundi, often guarantors of peace and transparency, notably in 1993 during the first democratic elections and during successive periods of crisis, including during the controversial term of the late President Pierre Nkurunziza in 2015.

In conclusion, the bishops call on Burundian authorities to implement concrete measures to enable the holding of free, transparent, democratic, independent, and inclusive elections. They reaffirm their commitment to supporting Burundian people through prayer and moral teaching for the building of a common future based on justice, peace, and solidarity.

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Burundi Catholic Bishops at the ordination of the Bishop of Bururi (SOS Médias Burundi)