SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, May 20, 2025 – The Burundian Ministry of the Interior welcomed on Monday the smooth running of the ongoing election campaign, stating that it is taking place « calmly and without hindrance » throughout the country. However, on the ground, testimonies gathered in several provinces paint a very different picture, marked by pressure, intimidation, and irregularities.

During a press briefing on Monday, Minister Martin Niteretse praised a campaign marked by calm and respect for democratic rules. According to him, all political parties, coalitions, and independent candidates are participating freely in the campaign and carrying out their activities without major hindrance.

« Competitors are freely campaigning wherever they want, without any problems, » said Mr. Niteretse.

The few reported incidents are described as « minor » and, according to the minister, were well managed thanks to rapid communication between the parties involved, proof, he said, of the existence of a true democracy in Burundi.

Among the acknowledged incidents, he mentioned the attack on CNL party members in Mpanda district, Bubanza ) (western Burundi), in which five people were injured, as well as disputes around meeting places in Bubanza and Bujumbura province (west). Cases of deliberate destruction of voter cards were also reported in Gitega, Rutana, and Cibitoke, in the center, southeast, and northwest of the country. In Muyinga (northeast), a road accident claimed the lives of two CNDD-FDD activists.

Martin Niteretse stated that some of the alleged perpetrators of the attack on CNL activists have already been arrested and that investigations are continuing to identify and punish all those responsible.

The minister called on candidates to strictly respect the law throughout the election period. He urged the administration to continue facilitating the organization of campaign activities, particularly by ensuring that conflicts related to the occupation of gathering places are avoided.

But on the ground, several residents interviewed by SOS Médias Burundi report a completely different reality. « Here in Bubanza, the authorities force us to attend ruling party meetings, even when we have other important activities. If you refuse, you are immediately labeled an opponent, » said a young trader.

In Ngozi, a woman claimed that the administration sent village chiefs to mobilize the villagers. « We were told that if we didn’t participate in the CNDD-FDD campaign, our children would be removed from the list of social assistance beneficiaries, » she confided.

The same situation prevailed in Rumonge, where a fisherman reported being forced to abandon his business.

« I was told my canoe would be seized if I didn’t attend the rally. I had to go, but I didn’t listen. »

In Gitega, a teacher spoke of a climate of fear : « Everyone pretends to support the ruling party, but many do so only out of fear of reprisals. »

The Ministry of the Interior also called on all partners in the electoral process, including law enforcement and local authorities, to be extra vigilant. The goal is to prevent any actions that could harm the smooth running of the campaign, preserve social peace, and ensure a peaceful electoral climate.

Asked about the use of state vehicles by certain authorities, Martin Niteretse stated that these officials are carrying out their daily activities normally, which justifies the use of these resources.

« The main thing is that these vehicles serve the citizen. What would be problematic is if an official removed his license plate and put on another one. If he’s serving, he has no reason to hide, » he concluded.