Burundi - May 2025

Repression against opposition parties and journalists intensified ahead of the 5 June legislative and local elections, with security forces and suspected members of the ruling CNDD-FDD (Conseil National Pour la Défense de la Démocratie–Forces pour la Défense de la Démocratie) party’s youth wing reportedly escalating attacks. The crackdown, which began in late April and worsened in May, included arrests, abductions, and violent assaults. A journalist was kidnapped and beaten on 28 April, and in early May, two opposition activists were seriously injured or detained. Journalists also reported threats and obstruction at roadblocks. Although the election campaign was launched on 9 May, leading opposition figures boycotted it, citing ruling party dominance. Since 13 May, parties have reported intimidation, blocked rallies, and destruction of voter cards. On 3 June, the interior minister acknowledged youth wing involvement and said most perpetrators had been arrested.

Sources: SOS Médias Burundi, International Crisis Group, Reporters Without Borders, X