Despite hopes for change, Burundi’s President Evariste Ndayishimiye continues to enforce a “wave of repression” since taking office four years ago, Amnesty International reported Wednesday.
Rights defenders, journalists, and opposition members face ongoing harassment, detention, and prosecution.
Ndayishimiye, who assumed power in June 2020 after President Pierre Nkurunziza’s sudden death, was initially praised for easing Burundi’s international isolation.
However, Amnesty’s report highlights persistent human rights violations, raising concerns despite global recognition of some positive steps.
Nkurunziza’s controversial third term in 2015 triggered protests, a failed coup, and deadly violence that claimed over 1,200 lives and forced 400,000 to flee.
Amnesty noted early signs of progress under Ndayishimiye, including the release of several journalists and activists in his first year.
Despite initial optimism, Amnesty said repression continues, stifling civil society and limiting discourse on key issues.
The EU and US resumed aid, seeing a “window of hope,” but arrests of activists and journalists on dubious charges remain widespread, exemplified by the case of Floriane Irangabiye.
Amnesty urges immediate action from Ndayishimiye to halt civic repression ahead of the 2025 elections.
The organization also calls on international partners, including the EU, to maintain pressure and closely monitor Burundi’s progress on human rights to ensure meaningful change.
