BURUNDI'S ELECTION CAMPAIGN ROCKED BY VIOLENCE

Bujumbura, BURUNDI

Supporters of Burundi’s ruling CNDD-FDD party and those of the opposition clashed as the tiny East African nation’s election campaign period continues under a cloud of tension.

Burundi’s opposition National Freedom Council (CNL), presidential candidate Agathon Rwasa, addresses supporters during a campaign rally in Ngozi province, Burundi

There have been reports of fighting in various parts of the country with unconfirmed reports saying two people have been killed.

Burundi is scheduled to hold presidential and legislative elections on May 20.

The country’s Attorney-General Sylvestre Nyandwi appealed to all political leaders not to instigate violence and animosity.

According to a decree signed by President Pierre Nkurunziza, the campaign period, which began on April 27, will run until May 17.

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused the government and ruling party members of using fear and repression against the opposition, remaining independent organisations and media in the run-up to the general elections.

“There is little doubt that these elections will be accompanied by more abuses, as Burundian officials and members of the Imbonerakure (youth league) are using violence with near-total impunity to allow the ruling party to entrench its hold on power.” Lewis Mudge, Central Africa director at Human Rights Watch said.

The campaigns are going on despite the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic. The close proximity of people at political rallies has sparked concerns that coronavirus infections could spike in the country.

Burundi has so far reported 15 COVID-19 cases. The country has been plagued by unrest since April 2015 when President Pierre Nkurunziza announced his bid for a disputed third term, a bid he has since dropped.