Press freedom in Burundi is facing renewed threats, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has warned, after the country plummeted 17 spots in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index. The watchdog’s annual report ranks Burundi 125th out of 180 countries, down from 108th last year, reflecting what RSF describes as a “climate of growing repression and fear” for journalists.
The Paris-based organization linked the decline to intensifying control by the ruling CNDD-FDD party, in power since 2005. “The CNDD-FDD functions like a party-state that does not tolerate dissent,” RSF said in a statement as the world observed the Press Freedom Day this Friday. It highlighted widespread surveillance of media outlets, restrictions on coverage in several provinces, and instances where journalists must seek approval—or be accompanied by state media—to report on sensitive issues.
RSF also criticized the National Communication Council (CNC), the state media regulator, calling it “entirely dependent on the government.” The organization questioned its independence and neutrality, saying it had become a tool to silence critical reporting.
“Journalists in Burundi operate under constant threat,” RSF said, citing cases of arbitrary arrests, physical assaults, and intimidation. “These aren’t isolated incidents—they represent a systematic pattern of repression.”
Among the most alarming cases was an attack on the offices of Iwacu, one of Burundi’s few remaining independent newspapers. RSF reported attempted abductions, threats, and even torture targeting its staff. The watchdog pointed to an ongoing atmosphere of impunity and named state authorities and ruling party affiliates as complicit in creating it.
RSF also revisited the unsolved disappearance of journalist Jean Bigirimana, a former Iwacu reporter who went missing in 2016. “After nine years, there’s still no credible investigation, and officials who may have been involved remain untouched,” RSF said.
Civil Society Joins Call for Media Protection
The warnings from RSF were echoed by local civil society leaders. Faustin Ndikumana, head of PARCEM—a local civil society organization—emphasized the link between press freedom and democratic governance.
“There is no good governance without freedom,” Ndikumana said during a press briefing Thursday on the country’s governance and economic trends in early 2025. “A responsible government cannot thrive without a strong, independent media sector.”
He also voiced concern about the quality of journalism in the country, noting a decline in investigative reporting. “When you listen to the news today, you rarely hear in-depth or original work. Journalists are simply repeating what they’re told, which reflects how restricted the media has become.”
Journalist Assault Sparks Outrage
The release of RSF’s report comes just days after another disturbing incident: the violent assault and brief detention of journalist Willy Kwizera from Bonesha FM. He was attacked on Monday at the University of Burundi’s Mutanga campus while reporting on student living conditions.
Kwizera was reportedly assaulted by student leaders who accused him of “tarnishing the image of the country,” “sabotaging elections,” and being linked to exiled opposition groups. He was later released but forced to sign documents under duress, according to his employer.
“This was a shameful act that has no place in a country governed by rule of law,” said Raymond Nzimana, Director of Bonesha FM. He condemned the attack and demanded accountability.
However, CNC chairperson Espérance Ndayizeye claimed the regulatory body had not been formally notified of the incident. “We learned about the case via social media,” she told reporters. Nzimana refuted the claim, stating the matter was communicated to the deputy chair of the CNC shortly after the attack.
The incident sparked condemnation from human rights groups. Vianney Ndayisaba, national coordinator of ALUCHOTO, called it “inhumane” and demanded the state take action. “The government must protect journalists, nullify any documents signed under pressure, and prosecute those responsible through fair legal channels,” he said.
Government Secrecy Under Scrutiny
Independent media in Burundi continue to struggle for access to official information, despite constitutional guarantees. In March, Finance Minister Nestor Ntahontuye came under fire after denying data to private outlets. The move drew widespread criticism, with many accusing the government of undermining public accountability.
As press freedom continues to erode, observers warn that Burundi risks isolating its media further and deepening mistrust between the state and the public.
“Media plays a central role in any democratic society,” RSF concluded. “Without urgent reforms and political will, the situation for Burundian journalists will only worsen.”
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