Burundi’s ruling party wins all parliamentary seats amid fraud claims
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Burundi’s CNDD-FDD wins every parliamentary seat in a vote marred by intimidation and fraud claims.
Burundi’s Ruling Party Takes Full Control of Parliament Amid Fraud Allegations
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Burundi’s CNDD-FDD wins every parliamentary seat in a vote marred by intimidation and fraud claims.
Uncontested Victory Sparks Outrage
Burundi’s ruling party, the National Council for the Defense of Democracy – Forces for the Defense of Democracy (CNDD-FDD), has swept the nation’s legislative elections, claiming all 100 available parliamentary seats. The results, announced by the national electoral commission on Wednesday, have provoked sharp backlash from opposition parties and civil society groups, who accuse the government of orchestrating a fraudulent process.
The CNDD-FDD reportedly secured 96.51% of the national vote, while no other party surpassed the 2% threshold required for representation in parliament.
Opposition Silenced Ahead of the Vote
One of the most alarming aspects of the election was the exclusion of the main opposition party, the National Congress for Liberty (CNL). Many of its leaders were removed from the ballot or arrested, while members and supporters reported widespread harassment, intimidation, and detention throughout the campaign season.
Election monitors and human rights groups noted a pattern of systematic suppression of dissent, with opposition polling agents arrested on voting day and barred from observing the process in many areas.
A Peaceful Process—or a Controlled One?
Despite these concerns, election officials hailed the vote as “peaceful and orderly.” While violence was minimal, critics say that calmness does not equate to fairness.
Observers cited statistical irregularities in numerous regions. In some constituencies, results showed 100% voter turnout with all votes going to CNDD-FDD — and not a single spoiled ballot. Analysts and international experts say such figures are virtually impossible in a genuinely competitive democratic process.
A Legacy of Power Consolidation
The CNDD-FDD has ruled Burundi since 2005, following the country’s civil war. The party’s current leader, President Évariste Ndayishimiye, took office in 2020 after the death of former president Pierre Nkurunziza.
Ndayishimiye had promised to bring political reform and greater openness, but many now view this election as a sign of deepening authoritarianism. His party now controls all branches of government without opposition, giving it sweeping power over national decisions.
Civil Society Raises Red Flags
Numerous civil society organizations have spoken out against the election process, arguing that the environment of fear and coercion undermined voter freedom. Groups also noted that there was limited international observation, and that media coverage was heavily tilted in favor of the ruling party.
Independent voices in the country worry that the absence of opposition in parliament will eliminate any meaningful checks and balances, creating a rubber-stamp legislature that cannot challenge executive overreach. CHECK ALSO| South Sudan: UN warns of imminent famine
Growing Economic and Political Tensions
Beyond the political implications, Burundi is facing a severe economic crisis. With rising inflation, unemployment, and limited access to international aid, citizens are growing increasingly frustrated. The recent election results may exacerbate tensions, as many feel excluded from the political process.
International observers and human rights advocates have urged the government to address legitimate concerns from opposition parties and restore public trust in the democratic process.
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