Ahead of Burundi’s 2025 legislative elections, the Catholic Church has called for social inclusion, peaceful coexistence, and a fair electoral process. In a statement released on Sunday, the Conference of Catholic Bishops emphasized the importance of upholding human dignity and individual freedoms throughout the election period.
While acknowledging the current climate of peaceful coexistence, the bishops raised concerns over the increasing normalization of violence within families and communities. “Numerous cases of violence within families and between neighbors have been reported in various parts of the country. Unfortunately, this situation is becoming dangerously normalized and no longer attracts the necessary attention it deserves,” they stated.
The bishops urged citizens to prioritize the common good and adopt responsible behaviors during the electoral period. “Everyone benefits when the electoral process takes place with respect for human dignity, taking into account individual freedoms and political formations,” they added.
The statement comes amid rising concerns from opposition political parties about the newly announced election schedule. President Évariste Ndayishimiye recently issued a decree setting the legislative elections for June 5, 2025, with new constituencies reflecting the country’s restructured provinces.
Opposition politician and former President of the National Assembly, Léonce Ngendakumana, has expressed concerns about potential manipulation due to the tight electoral timeline. He called for greater transparency and inclusivity to ensure a peaceful election, criticizing elected officials for prioritizing party loyalty over the interests of citizens.
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