Ruyigi : concern over the death of a former administrator and the disappearance of a trader

SOS Médias Burundi

Ruyigi, August 23, 2025 – The district and capital of Ruyigi, in Buhumuza province (eastern Burundi), is plunged into a climate of concern after two mysterious events that occurred in less than two weeks : the suspicious death of a former district administrator and the disappearance of a locally known trader.

A death shrouded in mystery

On August 10, the lifeless body of Joseph Ndimunkwenge, a ninety-year-old former district administrator, was found in his home in the Sanzu II neighborhood. The door, locked from inside, had to be broken down to access the remains.

According to his relatives, his servants had abruptly left their workplace the day before, claiming they no longer wanted to work for him. The family had requested an autopsy and a thorough investigation, but no official conclusions have been released. The burial, which took place on August 18, happened in an atmosphere described by residents as “silent and disturbing.”

A disappearance that revives fears

During the night of August 21-22, N.J., nicknamed “Mama Sarah,” a trader in her forties who worked at the Ruyigi central market, mysteriously disappeared in the same neighborhood. To protect her safety, her relatives have chosen not to reveal her full identity.

Despite searches conducted by her family and local authorities, no leads have yet emerged. This disappearance reinforces fears among the population, already affected by the suspicious death of Joseph Ndimunkwenge.

A worried population, investigations at a standstill

“We want to know the truth, we need security,” says a resident of Sanzu II.

Some fear that these cases will be closed without further action, as was the case in neighboring districts, notably in Cankuzo last July.

The Buhumuza provincial police assure that investigations are ongoing but acknowledge that they lack “solid leads.” They call on the public to cooperate by sharing any useful information.

Shattered trust and suspicions of laxity

These two incidents, occurring in close succession, are undermining public trust in security institutions. Local observers believe that a prolonged delay in investigations could fuel a feeling of abandonment.

Some residents even accuse officials at the Ruyigi police station of being “demotivated” and less diligent in their work, preoccupied with their future assignments following recent administrative and professional reorganizations.

While awaiting clarification, the town of Ruyigi remains plunged into uncertainty, oscillating between fear of a new incident and waiting for a clear response from the authorities.