The leader of Burundi’s main opposition party, Agathon Rwasa, has once again spoken out strongly, accusing the current regime of authoritarian rule and undermining democracy. He claims the upcoming elections are not a democratic celebration, but rather a scripted play orchestrated by the ruling party CNDD-FDD.
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In a press conference, Rwasa said the forthcoming parliamentary and local (communal) elections are merely a tool to strengthen President Évariste Ndayishimiye’s grip on power.
“These are not real elections. They’re like a theatrical performance carefully staged by CNDD-FDD. This is democracy only in words, in practice, it’s all about intimidation, authoritarianism, and exclusion.” Rwasa said.
Rwasa called for a national dialogue bringing together different stakeholders to denounce the current mode of governance, arguing that real change must come through discussions, truth, and freedom.
He went on to say that the early stages of the electoral campaign have already been marred by violence and intimidation, with many citizens afraid to express opinions different from those of the ruling party.
“People are being intimidated by the Imbonerakure (youth wing of CNDD-FDD). Wherever they go, people fall silent. Some are stripped of their voter cards; others flee political activity altogether,” Rwasa said.
“Their campaigning is just another staged act. There are no political debates, no real competition between parties. Everything is set up to ensure CNDD-FDD wins by force.”
Rwasa also accused CNDD-FDD of controlling all electoral institutions for its own interests, from grassroots levels up to the supposedly independent national electoral commission, making it impossible to expect a transparent vote.
A politician frequently criticized by the Burundian government, Rwasa urged Burundians to rise up peacefully and demand change so the country can be led inclusively and according to the will of its people.
“Our country is heading in a dangerous direction. If we don’t stand up together, we will find that democracy has been completely erased.”
Rwasa’s remarks come as Burundi prepares for its parliamentary and local elections — preparations that many observers say are stacked against opposition forces.
As Burundi gears up for these elections, President Ndayishimiye faces mounting domestic pressure, with opposition figures like Rwasa accusing him of dictatorship, suppressing democracy, and manipulating the electoral process. This is fueling a tense political climate, with many citizens reportedly afraid to participate due to intimidation.
But there’s another battle President Ndayishimiye now faces: the international perception of his leadership.
Analysts warn that the way the elections are being organized could damage Burundi’s credibility on the global stage, especially with ongoing allegations of discrimination, intimidation, and torture.
Allegations that security forces and the ruling party’s youth wing are harassing opposition members may lead the international community to view Burundi as a country that violates human rights.
All of this puts President Ndayishimiye in a very difficult position, forced to choose between continuing down an authoritarian path that could cost him legitimacy both at home and abroad, or opening the door to genuine dialogue and reform in the electoral process.
This is a different kind of war, not one of bullets, but a battle for political wisdom, credibility, and lasting peace. It’s a struggle to preserve the reputation of his leadership, the integrity of the nation, and the future of democracy in Burundi.
