Burundi Bwa Bose has raised significant concerns over the worsening economic situation in Burundi, particularly highlighting the rising poverty levels and the government’s failure to tackle the underlying issues. In a statement released on Thursday, the coalition emphasized that the ongoing economic instability, including widespread poverty, could further exacerbate the socio-economic challenges facing the country.
According to the statement, signed by Patrick Nkurunziza on behalf of the coalition, Burundi is currently grappling with a severe economic crisis, characterized by the depreciation of the national currency, the escalating costs of essential goods such as BRARUDI beverages, food, chemical fertilizers, medicines, and more. The crisis has particularly affected government employees, whose salaries remain stagnant while the cost of living continues to climb.
The coalition attributed the country’s worsening economic situation to systemic corruption, embezzlement of state funds, and the government’s failure to engage effectively with international partners. These issues, the statement suggests, have prevented the country from boosting its agricultural production, especially in export-oriented sectors.
“The poverty crisis did not emerge spontaneously but is the result of poor economic policies and mismanagement of national resources, which became evident under the current government,” according to the statement posted on social media. The coalition has expressed frustration over the administration’s continued inability to address the ongoing crisis, which they believe is a direct consequence of the government’s failure to manage the country’s economic and social needs effectively.
Highlighting the impact of the ongoing fuel shortages, which have lasted for over three years, the coalition argued that these shortages are symptomatic of a government at its limits. The group warned that this situation has severely hindered the country’s functionality, with the entire nation’s daily life being paralyzed.
As Burundi approaches the upcoming elections, the coalition has voiced serious concerns about the possibility of holding credible polls under the current circumstances — an issue previously raised by other opposition parties. “The upcoming elections will not be feasible if candidates are unable to reach the population,” the coalition warned, casting doubt on the government’s ability to ensure a fair and accessible electoral process.
Burundi Bwa Bose also criticized the government’s Vision 2040-2060, calling it a “false hope” for the future, as it diverts attention from the present crisis. “There are no tangible indicators suggesting that Burundi will be economically stable by 2040 or significantly developed by 2060,” the statement cautioned, warning that if nothing is done to address the crisis immediately, Burundi could face a default on its debt obligations and a total collapse of household livelihoods in the coming years.
As a solution, Burundi Bwa Bose calls for the establishment of an independent parliament, free from executive influence, composed largely of opposition political forces. This would enable genuine dialogue between the current ruling class and new political forces, aiming to address the country’s political, social, and economic challenges, while preparing for inclusive, transparent, and credible presidential elections.
Leave a comment