SOS Médias Burundi

Bubanza, May 3, 2025 – As legislative and municipal elections scheduled for June near, in the small East African nation, a climate of widespread fear is taking hold in Bubanza province (western Burundi). Damning testimonies point to the Imbonerakure, the youth wing of the CNDD-FDD party, accused of harassment, threats, and targeted violence against opponents. Considered a militia by the United Nations, these young activists are causing growing concern among the population.

In Bubanza’s five communes, residents give accounts of their constant pressure. Imbonerakure leaders, who are supposed to oversee the ruling party’s youth wing, are accused of increasing acts of intimidation against opposition members, particularly those from the CNL party. Death threats, beatings, and nighttime intrusions have been reported in several localities.

According to local sources, the young activists forcibly request that every citizen publicly support the CNDD-FDD. « They ask us to show a photo of our ballot on election day, or else be labeled enemies of the party, » said a teacher from the commune of Musigati, who chose to remain anonymous for fear of reprisals.

The Imbonerakure have already been singled out in several reports by international organizations. In 2018, the UN labeled them a partisan militia, denouncing abuses committed against political opponents, journalists, and even ordinary citizens. These actions now appear to be recurring in the electoral context.

Late-night propaganda rallies often turn into verbal outbursts. « The remarks are extremely violent. They talk about traitors to be eliminated, » reports a resident of central Bubanza.

Behind the terror strategy, some observers see a desperate attempt by the CNDD-FDD of containing a decline in popularity. A source close to the administration confirms: « The leaders know that voters are disappointed. So, they are using the Imbonerakure to maintain their hold on the population. »

The authorities, however, remain cautious. Governor Cléophace Nizigiyimana confirms having reports of certain incidents, but asserts that no formal complaints have been filed. He calls on the population to maintain peace.

Yet, on the ground, anxiety is rising. Families are discreetly leaving their hills, others are going underground. Ethnically motivated messages are circulating, rekindling old communal wounds.

Some days before legislative and communal elections, electoral violence fears are resurfacing, fueled by a campaign led amids threats and intimidation.

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An Imbonerakure parade in Makamba province, August 2023 (SOS Médias Burundi)