Burundi’s recent legislative and local elections, conducted on June 5, 2025, have come under scrutiny with allegations of voter intimidation and the elimination of political opposition, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW). The country’s ruling party, the National Council for the Defense of Democracy–Forces for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD–FDD), triumphed overwhelmingly, securing 96.5 percent of the vote and dominating the National Assembly and communal council elections.
Clémentine de Montjoye from HRW expressed concerns about the election’s lack of competition, noting the backdrop of mounting economic distress and human rights violations. Witnesses recounted incidents of intimidation at polling stations, with party loyalists, including the Imbonerakure youth wing, actively pressuring voters to support the ruling party. Additionally, electoral authorities reportedly directed media outlets to avoid discussing any electoral irregularities.
The political climate in Burundi has been tense following years of reported repression under President Évariste Ndayishimiye. In August 2024, Amnesty International condemned ongoing repression of civil liberties, highlighting cases of arbitrary arrests and harassment of journalists and activists. This environment effectively barred opposition figures, like former CNL leader Agathon Rwasa, from participating in the elections.
Despite some international observers describing the elections as peaceful, reports of ballot stuffing and restricted access for opposition observers raise concerns about the integrity of democratic processes in Burundi. The ruling party’s dominance, coupled with these allegations, underscores the challenges facing Burundian democracy, which risks further consolidation of authoritarian rule.
For more detailed coverage on the Burundi elections and the human rights implications, refer to the original report on JURIST.