Students at the University of Burundi’s Mutanga campus say they are living in fear following a series of alleged attacks by fellow students affiliated with the ruling CNDD-FDD party.
Several students who reside in campus dormitories claim they’ve been harassed, assaulted, and even extorted by members of the Imbonerakure — the youth wing of the ruling party. According to multiple sources, the violence typically happens at night, targeting students who are not aligned with the CNDD-FDD.
“Security on campus has really deteriorated lately,” said one student, speaking on condition of anonymity. “People are being attacked in their rooms. There’s a sense of panic among us.”
Some students say they’ve been dragged out of bed in the middle of the night, beaten, and forced to pay money to their attackers. “It’s the Imbonerakure,” one student explained. “They beat you and then demand a payment — like a fine — before letting you go.”
The reports have raised concern that the violence could spiral into something more serious. “This isn’t the first time,” said another student. “There have been killings here in the past. With what’s happening now, we’re scared the past could repeat itself.”
The university administration, however, has rejected all the allegations. In a statement issued earlier this week, the rectorate called the reports false and damaging to the university’s reputation.
“The University of Burundi strongly denies the spread of misinformation aimed at harming the institution’s image,” the statement read. “Claims that Imbonerakure students are abusing others are baseless, especially when no official complaints have been filed.”
This isn’t the first time youth affiliated with the ruling party have been accused of violence on campus. In April, journalist Willy Kwizera of Bonesha FM was assaulted while covering a story at the university. According to reports, he was detained and roughed up by students believed to be members of the CNDD-FDD.
Despite denying the current accusations, the university’s leadership says it remains open to dialogue. “The administration welcomes any concerns or formal complaints and remains committed to promoting peaceful and respectful coexistence,” the statement added.
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