Burundian opposition political parties operating in exile have called for the cancellation of the upcoming parliamentary and communal elections, urging instead for inclusive national dialogue that brings together all Burundians to resolve the country’s political and economic crisis.
This call was made in a joint statement signed by leaders of four political parties in exile: CFOR-Arusha, CNARED-Giriteka, MAP-Burundi Buhire, and CRN-Ingeri y’Urugamba, the latter represented by Frédéric Bamvuginyumvira. They called for elections to be cancelled in favor of national dialogue.
The statement also appealed to the European Union (EU), the East African Community (EAC), and the architects of the Arusha Peace Agreement to actively support and facilitate inclusive talks involving all political actors, civil society, and other relevant stakeholders.
Moreover, the opposition parties urged the international community to help enforce the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) ruling issued on November 11, 2021, which stated that the late President Pierre Nkurunziza’s third term was unconstitutional and violated the law.
Their core argument for halting the elections is that Burundi is facing serious political and economic challenges, and elections, under the current conditions, would not solve the country’s deep-rooted problems.
The statement was signed by the leaders of the four opposition parties:
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Chauvineau Murwengezo, President of CRN-Ingeri ya Rugamba
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Dr. Jean Minani, President of CNARED-Giriteka
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Emery Igiraneza, President of MAP-Burundi Buhire
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Frédéric Bamvuginyumvira, President of CFOR-Arusha and overall spokesperson for the coalition
They concluded that the planned elections will not bring any meaningful solution to Burundi’s crisis.
