The Stream

Battle in Burundi

As a political crisis engulfs the country, Burundians discuss their future.

One decade ago Burundi was a burgeoning democracy. Six months ago it was plunged into political crisis that continues until today.

When President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his run for a controversial third term in office, violence erupted. Despite opposition claims of the vote being unconstitutional and in violation of the Arusha Agreement, Nkurunziza’s bid was successful and he began a new term in August.

Since then Burundian security personnel have been accused of frequently raiding opposition strongholds in the capital Bujumbura. The government denies they’re behind it blaming criminal elements instead, but dead bodies continue to appear. According to the UN the official death toll is 134, but some say that number doesn’t reflect the reality of the violence.

The political crisis is worsening and dissidents are fleeing. Relations with neighbouring Rwanda are troubled, and refugees are pouring across the border. On the next Stream we’ll speak to Burundians about their country, has it reached the point of no return? 
 

In this episode of The Stream, we speak with: 

 

Karl-Chris Nsabiyumva @Mr_Burundi
Burundian blogger

thisburundianlife.wordpress.com

    

Ketty Nivyabandi @kettynivyabandi
Burundian poet

enfantsdupays.net
 

Archie Henry @ArchieHenry2
Political analyst

 

Teddy Mazina @TeddyMazina
Burundian photographer 

 

 

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