The recent dismissal and detention of Alexis Ntunzwenayo, head of Nyamurenza commune in Burundi’s northern Ngozi province, have sparked widespread speculation over allegations tied to national security. Ntunzwenayo was arrested on Saturday and is currently detained at Ngozi Prison on charges of “undermining national security,” according to an arrest warrant issued by the Prosecutor of the Republic under the Ngozi Court of Appeal, as reported by local media.
A ministerial decree released on Friday announced Ntunzwenayo’s removal from office, citing “inappropriate behavior that tarnishes his reputation and that of the country.” However, the decree did not provide further details about the accusations against him.
Reports suggest that Ntunzwenayo is accused of neglecting his duty to combat smuggling and allegedly protecting individuals involved in illegal trade. These claims have been echoed by several administrative authorities and confirmed by the Governor of Ngozi Province, who reportedly issued multiple warnings and advisories to Ntunzwenayo about his conduct, according to local magazine Jimbere.
Multiple sources have reportedly confirmed that Ntunzwenayo “engaged in activities that could destabilize the country” across various sectors with one official saying “The commune leader committed unacceptable acts and admits to the accusations against him.”
Adding to the controversy are allegations that Ntunzwenayo permitted four Rwandan nationals to enter Burundi illegally through Nyamurenza commune. These individuals were reportedly attending a funeral. However, Ntunzwenayo has denied the claims, stating that he was not the one who authorized their entry, according to local Radio Télévision Isanganiro.
The allegations have taken on greater significance due to strained relations between Burundi and Rwanda. Since the borders were closed earlier in 2023, tensions have remained high, with Burundi accusing Rwanda of supporting terrorist activities and providing shelter to individuals implicated in the failed 2015 coup against then-President Pierre Nkurunziza.
Despite a brief thaw in relations under President Évariste Ndayishimiye, who reopened the borders in 2022 and initiated direct talks, recent developments have reignited animosity. Just last week, in an interview with TV5Monde, President Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of orchestrating terrorist activities on Burundian soil, stating that reopening the borders would depend on Rwanda extraditing individuals tied to the coup attempt.
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