Gitega : a controversial legal case closes for Green Hills pupils

SOS Médias Burundi

Gitega, November 9, 2025 – All 25 pupils from Green Hills International College in Gitega, the political capital of Burundi, arrested in late October in a disciplinary case that escalated into a legal matter, are now free. The 19 who were still in detention were released on November 6 by order of the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Arthémon Katihabwa.

This measure was taken after several days of strong reactions sparked by their arrest, which many observers deemed hasty. The initial decision came from the former Attorney General at the Gitega Court of Appeal, who was dismissed on November 7.

Initially, 25 pupils had been arrested. Five of them, around 18 years old, were held in Gitega Central Prison, while fourteen others were held in the provincial police cells. The remaining six had been released a few days earlier, before the minister’s official decision.

The release on November 6 was carried out in the presence of the Chief Justice and the Attorney General.

A release welcomed by parents

A parent, who requested anonymity, welcomed the decision, calling it “an act of true justice” and a sign of humanity.

“The release of these young people is not only an act of justice, but also a commendable gesture from a man of law with parental concern,” he said, expressing his gratitude to Minister Katihabwa.

Controversial arrests

The pupils had been arrested following a controversial decision made in haste. According to several local sources, the magistrate reportedly refused to extend her investigation to certain students from influential families, including the children of high-ranking officials and generals, even though the school is known for attracting pupils from affluent backgrounds.

This stance sparked outrage among many parents and observers, who denounced a two-tiered justice system.

Return to school life

After their release, the pupils returned to their dormitories that same evening before resuming classes the following morning. The atmosphere has calmed within the school, where teachers and parents hope for a lasting return to peace.

Parents call for transparency

The pupils’ parents have also requested that the 89 million Burundi francs (Bif), already paid for the repair of school and administrative equipment, be deposited into the Ministry of Justice’s account.

They are advocating for transparent management of these funds, pending the conclusions of the ongoing police investigations.

Silence from local judicial authorities

The administration of Green Hills International College and the dismissed prosecutor declined to comment on this decision.