SOS Médias Burundi

Bujumbura, July 27, 2025 – The president of the organization Speech and Actions for the Revival of Conscience and Mentality Change (PARCEM), Faustin Ndikumana, launched an urgent appeal earlier this week to guarantee the autonomy of the Burundi Central Bank (BRB). During a press conference, he denounced opaque management and political dependence, which he considers harmful to the national economy.

An institution under presidential supervision criticized

According to Mr. Ndikumana, the BRB, supposedly an independent institution, is currently administered under the direct authority of the Presidency of the Republic. « It’s time for this to stop, » he declared, describing the situation as contrary to international standards of economic governance.

Lack of autonomy and opacity in management

The President of PARCEM believes that the lack of autonomy prevents the BRB from regulating effectively and transparently. This deficiency, he believes, particularly affects the management of foreign currency, the scarcity of which weighs heavily on the Burundian economy.

Plea for a return to the ministry of finance

For Faustin Ndikumana, the Central Bank should return to the Ministry of Finance, which would allow for more rigorous regulation and ensure equitable management of monetary resources. He also calls for strict compliance with the national regulatory framework, stating that no entity, including the Presidency and the Prime Minister’s Office, should be exempt from these rules.

Against the political instrumentalization of the BRB

The activist warns against any use of the BRB for political purposes. « We must not use our political clout to gain advantages at the Central Bank, » he warned, calling for a clear separation between technical responsibilities and political agendas.

A call for urgent reform

In conclusion, Faustin Ndikumana urges the Burundian authorities to undertake a thorough reform of the BRB’s operating methods. « We must guarantee its independence and professionalism so that it serves the general interest, not particular interests, » he insisted.