As Burundi prepares for local and presidential elections, UN human rights investigators urge the government to restore democratic freedoms amid worsening human rights abuses. The situation is exacerbated by violence from the Imbonerakure and a concerning humanitarian crisis impacting many refugees. The urgent need for reforms is underscored to secure free and credible elections.
As Burundi approaches its local and presidential elections in two months, independent human rights investigators appointed by the United Nations have called on the government to reopen the “democratic, civil and political space”. The Commissioners of the Geneva-based Commission Inquiry on Burundi (COIB) emphasized that these elements are foundational for conducting free, transparent, and credible elections within a peaceful environment. The Commission pointed out that the situation in Burundi is deteriorating across various dimensions, including politics, economy, and security.
The report particularly highlights the actions of the Imbonerakure, a youth league affiliated with President Pierre Nkurunziza’s ruling party. The Commissioners noted a concerning pattern of violent acts perpetrated against opposition politicians and their families, including killings, disappearances, arbitrary arrests, torture, and sexual violence. Such actions contribute to a climate of fear and repression, undermining the political integrity of the upcoming elections.
In addition to the escalating violence, the human rights investigators remarked on the challenging humanitarian conditions plaguing Burundi. Currently, around 336,000 Burundian refugees reside in neighboring countries, with some reportedly returning under circumstances that raise doubts about the voluntariness of their repatriation. The humanitarian crisis has compounded since President Nkurunziza’s controversial decision to pursue a third term in 2015, which ignited widespread unrest and led to significant loss of life, displacing approximately half a million individuals.
The situation in Burundi continues to be critical as elections approach, with serious concerns raised about human rights violations and the lack of political freedom. The call from UN-appointed investigators to reopen essential democratic spaces highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure fair elections. The ongoing violence and humanitarian issues pose significant threats to both current and future stability in the region, necessitating immediate international attention and support.
Original Source: news.un.org
