Ahead of the upcoming 2025 elections, political party leaders in Burundi have raised significant concerns about security and political tolerance, highlighting a worrying rise in violence against party members. During a crucial meeting held on Monday with the Minister of the Interior Martin Niteretse and other government officials, political leaders emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure fair and safe elections.
The meeting—which also included the President of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), Prosper Ntahorwamiye—was an opportunity to assess the progress of election preparations and address growing tensions. Several party representatives expressed their dismay over reports of their members being subjected to violence which they say is fostering an atmosphere of intolerance in the political landscape.
Gaspard Kobako, the leader of the AND Intadohoka party, recounted a troubling incident involving one of his representatives from Bujumbura, who was arrested in Cibitoke while carrying official documents. According to Kobako, the individual was only released after paying 500,000 BIF to an Officer of Judicial Police (OPJ). Kobako criticized such practices, warning that they undermined trust and security within the political sphere.
Minister Martin Niteretse expressed his satisfaction with the cooperation among political parties but called for a more respectful dialogue. “Let us refrain from hurtful language or behaviors that make others feel disrespected or mistreated,” Niteretse said, urging all parties to focus on peaceful and constructive discussions as the election date approaches.
Gabriel Banzawitonde, president of the APDR party, called for exceptional access to fuel during the election period to ensure that parties can carry out their activities without hindrance. In response, Minister Niteretse assured the leaders that the government would coordinate with SOPEBU, the company responsible for fuel management in Burundi, to ensure an adequate supply of fuel for election-related activities especially given its scarcity throughout the country these days. He further clarified that the issue of fuel shortages was “a matter of timing”, as some individuals exploit the situation for personal gain, selling fuel elsewhere after acquiring it.
Prosper Ntahorwamiye, the president of the CENI, assured the political leaders that the government had set up a contingency fund to address any fuel shortages that may arise during the election period. The fund, which includes 15,000 liters of fuel, aims to support election operations and prevent disruptions.
Leave a comment