The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) gave a press briefing on Friday, January 3, to explain why some political parties’ candidates were rejected for the upcoming elections. Among those rejected was the “Burundi bwa bose” coalition, which has taken the matter to the Constitutional Court, calling the decision unfair and against the law.

Out of 25 parties that submitted candidates, only CNDD-FDD and UPRONA had their lists approved for the legislative and municipal elections.

CENI President Prosper Ntahorwamiye explained that most rejections were due to incomplete lists, unqualified candidates, or missing documents. However, the rejection of the "Burundi bwa bose" coalition caused the most controversy. This coalition includes members of the CNL who were removed from their party’s leadership but remain linked to it through official records.

About the "Burundi bwa bose" Coalition

The coalition, made up of four major opposition parties—Frodebu, CNDD, CODEBU, and FDES—is officially recognized by the Ministry of the Interior. However, CENI rejected its candidates for the elections.

CENI’s Justifications

CENI’s President said the coalition has legal issues because it includes CNL members, like Agathon Rwasa, who have not formally left their party. He pointed out that Burundi’s laws do not allow someone to belong to more than one political party at a time. Although Rwasa is no longer the CNL president, he is still considered a member of the party because he serves as a parliamentarian under its name.

CENI stated that Rwasa and others in the same situation have two choices: officially leave the CNL or run as independent candidates. However, the second option is no longer possible since the deadline for submitting candidacies has passed.

The "Burundi bwa bose" coalition has appealed to the Constitutional Court, asking it to cancel CENI’s decision, which they believe violates existing laws. CENI’s President, Ntahorwamiye, said the commission will follow the court’s ruling.

Response from the "Burundi bwa bose" Coalition

Kefa Nibizi, leader of the CODEBU party and spokesperson for the coalition, expressed shock at CENI’s decision. He claimed CENI unfairly removed their candidates, even in areas where their lists had already been approved by the CEPI (a local electoral body).

Nibizi criticized CENI for going beyond its role and overturning CEPI’s decisions. He also noted that CENI gave no clear reasons for rejecting their municipal councilor lists. The coalition has sent a letter asking CENI to review their appeal. They hope for a positive response, though they are prepared for any outcome.

Concerns About the Electoral Process

The rejection of the "Burundi bwa bose" candidates—seen as a key opponent to the ruling CNDD-FDD party—raises concerns about the fairness of the elections. With the case now in the Constitutional Court, its outcome could greatly impact the preparations for the upcoming elections.

Source: Iwacu-Burundi