Burundi’s election commission has barred opposition candidates from running in the upcoming June elections, sparking backlash.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) ruled that candidates from the Burundi for All coalition, linked to the suspended National Freedom Council (CNL), will be excluded. Three candidates—Agathon Rwasa, Euphrasie Mutenzinka, and Anatole Karorero—are affected.
Rwasa, a former presidential runner-up, was removed as CNL leader in March and is challenging the decision in court. Critics argue the move is aimed at keeping Rwasa out of the race.
The ruling follows a December decree that imposes strict eligibility rules for independent candidates, which many see as targeting Rwasa directly.
Despite efforts by President Evariste Ndayishimiye to improve Burundi’s global standing, concerns about human rights abuses persist, with ongoing repression of journalists and opposition figures.
As the election approaches, tensions between the government and opposition continue to rise.
