Burundi’s election commission has barred opposition candidates from contesting the upcoming local elections in June, sparking allegations of political interference.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) ruled that members of the four-party coalition “Burundi for All” are ineligible to run due to their association with the suspended opposition party, the National Freedom Council (CNL). Among those excluded are prominent figures such as Agathon Rwasa, a former presidential candidate and opposition leader.
Critics argue the decision is part of a deliberate effort to sideline Rwasa, who came second in the 2020 presidential race. New electoral laws, including restrictions on independent candidates and party defectors, have also been criticized as tailored to block his candidacy.
While President Evariste Ndayishimiye has been credited with reducing isolationism since taking office in 2020, Burundi continues to face scrutiny over its human rights record and alleged repression of journalists, activists, and opposition members.