Rugombo: two opposition men violently attacked by Imbonerakure

Two members of the CNL opposition party were violently attacked by youth affiliated with the CNDD-FDD’s Imbonerakure league on the night of January 11 to 12. The incident occurred on the Rubuye sub-hill in the locality of Mparambo 1, in the commune of Rugombo, Cibitoke province, in northwestern Burundi. One of the victims was stabbed, while both suffered serious injuries.
INFO SOS Médias Burundi
According to several local sources, Emmanuel Nduwayo and Siméon Niyonkuru, members of the CNL, were returning from a family celebration when they were intercepted by a group of youth from the ruling party. « One of the victims was stabbed in the back, » reports a local source. The two men who were seriously injured, were rushed to a health facility to receive intensive care.
According to consistent testimonies, the attack was motivated by the victims’ political affiliation. This attack comes on top of a series of acts of political violence recorded in the region, exacerbating tensions in the run-up to the legislative and municipal elections next May.
Local indignation
The attack has sparked strong anger among local residents, who are calling for exemplary sanctions against the perpetrators. « These young people from the presidential party must be brought to order, » demanded a local resident. « Their behavior is contrary to the principles of peaceful cohabitation that our country advocates. »
Reaction of the authorities
Daniel Bukuru, zone chief in Rugombo, confirmed the facts and announced that investigations were underway to clarify the circumstances of the attack and identify all the involved perpetrators. « Two suspects, David and Gasongo, have already been arrested and detained at the Rugombo communal police station. The other two suspects, Paul and Makarate, are being actively sought, » he said.
The zone chief called on the population to fully cooperate with the police to prevent such acts and ensure security in the region.
« Pacification meetings will be organized in the coming days to strengthen social cohesion in the run-up to the elections, » he added.
Political and historical dynamics
The Imbonerakure, often described as a militia by the opposition and some international organizations, are regularly accused of targeted violence against political opponents. This new episode reveals the fragility of the political climate in Burundi, marked by increased tensions in the run-up to elections. Historically, electoral periods have often been the scene of abuses against opposition actors.
Outlook and Expectations
As investigations continue, the people of Rugombo are looking for impartial justice and concrete measures to prevent such acts in the future. This case is a crucial test for local and national authorities on their willingness to address issues of political violence.
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CNL activists at a party rally (SOS Médias Burundi)