With two months to go before Burundi’s legislative elections, the Association of Burundians for the Reconstruction of Africa (ABA) has issued a strong appeal for political leaders to abandon divisive rhetoric and prioritize development.
Speaking to Bonesha FM on Tuesday, ABA Chairman Jean Bosco Ndereyimana called on politicians to “avoid their personal ideologies and act with calm and responsibility,” urging a shift away from hate speech and unproductive criticism.
“No one should preach hatred, but rather bring forward programs that will guide Burundians towards sustainable development,” Ndereyimana said, criticizing what he described as a trend among political actors to attack opponents instead of presenting concrete proposals.
He also called for mutual respect among political leaders and encouraged citizens to remain united and calm during the electoral process. “The elections will only last one day,” he added, “but national unity and daily work must continue.”
The appeal comes amid growing calls from civil society for a peaceful and transparent electoral process. In recent months, organizations such as ALUCHOTO have called on President Évariste Ndayishimiye to ensure the neutrality of security forces
“As the Commander-in-Chief of the security forces and the judiciary, President Ndayishimiye holds the responsibility to instruct security institutions to protect all Burundians while refraining from political interference,” said Vianney Ndayisaba, ALUCHOTO’s national coordinator.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to maintain its neutrality to ensure the electoral process remains free and fair. “A free and fair election requires CENI to act as a neutral referee, ensuring that all candidates accept the results with integrity.”
As outlined in the 2025 election timetable published by CENI, legislative and municipal elections are scheduled for June 05, followed by senatorial elections in July and local leadership elections in August.
Over six million voters are registered, according to CENI, which recently announced that observer accreditation will begin on April 21 and voter card distribution will run from May 2 to 8. The commission also announced May 13, 2025, as the official start date for electoral campaigns ahead of the country’s legislative elections, with the campaign period set to end on June 2.
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