UN Urges Burundi to Reinstate Human Rights Ahead of Elections

With two months until Burundi’s elections, UN rights investigators are urging the government to restore civil and political freedoms, citing a worsening human rights situation characterized by violence and repression linked to ruling party youth members, as well as a dire humanitarian crisis affecting numerous refugees.

As Burundi approaches its local and presidential elections in two months, independent human rights experts from the United Nations are urging the government to reopen democratic, civil, and political spaces. The Commissioners leading the Geneva-based Commission Inquiry on Burundi (COIB) stated in a briefing to the UN Human Rights Council that these freedoms are essential for conducting free, transparent, and credible elections in a peaceful environment.

The Commission warned of a continuing deterioration in Burundi, highlighting issues across political, economic, and security spheres. Of particular concern are the actions of the Imbonerakure, youth league members associated with President Pierre Nkurunziza’s ruling party, who have been implicated in attacks against opposition politicians and their families, including killings, arbitrary arrests, and acts of torture.

Moreover, the investigators reported a significant humanitarian crisis both within Burundi and among its refugees. Nearly 336,000 Burundians reside in neighboring countries, with concerns raised about the conditions under which refugees are returning home, questioning the genuine nature of their repatriation. The situation stems from President Nkunrunziza’s pursuit of a controversial third term in 2015, which many viewed as unconstitutional and has contributed to widespread violence and political unrest, resulting in numerous fatalities and mass displacements.

The upcoming elections in Burundi are overshadowed by grave human rights concerns, particularly related to the actions of the Imbonerakure and the overall deterioration of security and political conditions. The urgent call from UN rights experts for a reopening of democratic spaces highlights the critical need for a conducive environment for free elections. Furthermore, the significant refugee situation reflects the humanitarian impact of political turmoil in the nation.

Original Source: news.un.org