President Evariste Ndayishimiye has strongly criticized members of the ruling CNDD-FDD party for neglecting the party’s core values and prioritizing personal gain over national development. Speaking at the 2025 New Year celebration with natives of the newly established Gitega Province over the weekend, he emphasized the urgent need for a new generation of leaders to drive the country forward.
“We cannot build a prosperous Burundi with leaders who prioritize their own gain over the well-being of the people,” Ndayishimiye said. He described the prevailing attitude among some party members as harmful, accusing them of exploiting the system rather than working to improve it.
Ndayishimiye lamented the lack of patriotism among certain officials, highlighting the culture of corruption, nepotism, and disregard for citizens’ welfare. He referred to the mindset within the party as “vaho ndahaje” (step aside, it’s my turn), where individuals are more concerned with accessing state resources for personal enrichment rather than transforming the nation.
The president emphasized the need for a generational shift, urging young people, particularly members of the party’s youth wing, the Imbonerakure, to embrace the vision of a better Burundi. He warned against the toxic influence of some parents who instill defeatist attitudes in their children by dismissing the value of education and the nation’s potential.
“Some parents, even those with advanced degrees, tell their children that this country has done nothing for them. How can we expect progress when our elders teach such hopelessness to the next generation?” he questioned.
Ndayishimiye stressed that the future depends on building a “new generation” committed to patriotism and national development. “This is a ticking time bomb. We must create a fresh legacy of leadership, or Burundi will not progress,” he said.
In his address, Ndayishimiye also criticized officials who exploit public resources, undermine national unity, and fail to prioritize the needs of ordinary Burundians. “We must root out those who lack integrity, even if they wear the CNDD-FDD badge,” he said. “Being part of the party does not excuse poor leadership or betrayal of the people’s trust.”
The president vowed to hold leaders accountable and encouraged all Burundians to reject corruption, work hard, and prioritize the collective good over individual gain.
Echoing the president’s sentiments, Emery Landry Nyandwi, the CNDD-FDD’s Secretary for Ideology, decried the lack of patriotism among some citizens. He pointed to examples of tax evasion, corruption in the judiciary, and mismanagement in public services as evidence of this issue.
“It is heartbreaking to see some Burundians actively working against their country’s progress. How can one claim to love their country while hoarding resources, sabotaging development efforts, or lobbying for international sanctions against their homeland?” Nyandwi asked. He urged Burundians to rediscover their sense of national pride and commitment to the country. “Loving Burundi means contributing to its development and protecting its future,” he said.
President Ndayishimiye closed his remarks by reaffirming his commitment to fostering a culture of accountability and patriotism. He called on all Burundians, particularly the youth, to be part of the solution. “Together, we can build a Burundi where every citizen thrives. But this requires each of us to put the nation first, above personal interests,” he said.
As a political speech, it’s well said. If you would like to have a panoramic view of Bujumbura Town, You ought to stand not on the top of highest building in center town, but on the highest mountain out of the town.