Five opposition parties in Burundi have announced that they will not participate in preparations for the 2027 presidential elections, citing unresolved problems from last year’s polls.
In a joint statement signed on May 8, 2026, CNL, UPRONA, CODEBU, Sahwanya Frodebu, and CDP declared that the parliamentary and senatorial elections held last year were marred by irregularities, and there is no confidence that these issues will be addressed.
Opposition Accuses CENI of Failing to Ensure Credible Elections
The parties argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) lacks the capacity to organize credible presidential elections, given its poor handling of the legislative polls.
Although they did not list all the problems, the 2025 elections were widely criticized for vote-rigging and for voters being closely monitored by Imbonerakure, the youth wing of the ruling CNDD‑FDD party, which prevented them from voting freely.
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2025 Elections Led to Complete CNDD-FDD Control
These issues had major consequences: for the first time since Burundi adopted democratic governance, the National Assembly was entirely dominated by CNDD-FDD.
The five opposition parties said they will not attend preparatory meetings unless political dialogue is initiated to resolve the challenges and restore public trust in the electoral process.
Opposition Urges President Ndayishimiye to Launch Dialogue
The parties reminded President Évariste Ndayishimiye that he bears primary responsibility for safeguarding democracy, urging him to launch inclusive political talks.
The statement read: “The parties that signed this document commit to participating in frank and constructive dialogue aimed at strengthening democracy and ensuring that the next elections are credible, as required by Burundi’s laws.”
The opposition maintained that only inclusive dialogue can restore confidence in the country’s electoral process before the 2027 presidential elections.
President and CENI Respond to Opposition Concerns
On May 9, 2026, President Ndayishimiye acknowledged that some citizens are uneasy about the elections, saying they need “a parent’s conversation.”
He added: “I reassure you as the father of all Burundians. I have completed tours across the provinces to comfort citizens, and I will continue to reach out to them.”
Meanwhile, CENI president Prosper Ntahorwamiye responded that attending preparatory meetings is voluntary and will be left to those who wish to participate. He rejected calls for the political dialogue requested by the opposition.
