Cibitoke : two men sentenced for serious crimes

SOS Médias Burundi

Cibitoke, April 22, 2026—The Cibitoke First Instance Court, located in Bujumbura Province, western Burundi, has delivered its verdict in two separate cases involving serious crimes. These cases were tried under summary proceedings, with the aim of combating impunity and deterring similar acts within the society. Both decisions were handed down on Tuesday, April 21.

In the first case, a man identified as Eric Nyandwi was found guilty of the death of his five-year-old child. The incident occurred on the night of April 17, 2026, during an argument with his wife. Returning from the crop fields, he was holding a watering can, which he threw at his wife. The projectile tragically struck their son, who succumbed to his injuries. In court, the accused pleaded guilty. The judge sentenced him to one year of penal servitude, classifying the act as manslaughter.

The second case concerns Paul Mahwera, a polygamist accused of raping his eight-year-old daughter. During the hearing, the accused did not deny the facts but pleaded his innocence, citing impaired mental capacity. The deputy prosecutor had requested a life sentence. However, the court ultimately sentenced Paul Mahwera to 20 years in prison.

These judgments, rendered under summary proceedings, reflect the judicial authorities’ commitment to fully investigating these cases, putting an end to speculation, and strengthening the fight against serious crimes, particularly domestic violence and child abuse.