Witch hunt in Burundi: Brutal attacks shock the world!

Witch hunt in Burundi: Brutal attacks shock the world!

Bujumbura, Burundi - In Burundi, a brutal incident triggered horror worldwide. Two victims were burned alive and another killed with one stick. Three other people survived with serious injuries, with one of the victims still in the hospital. The incident occurred on the Gasarara hill, near the BUJumbura economic metropolis, and was committed by members of the Imbon Rechery, the youth wing of the ruling party. This paramilitary militia is heavily criticized by the United Nations and Human Rights Organizations because their serious crimes such as torture and murders are accused.

The violent attacks took place after rumors about unexplained deaths, including a child and a teacher, came up. Despite a majority of Christian population, traditional belief systems in Burundi are still widespread. Bujumbura's governor Desire Nsengiyumva described the lynch justice as "unacceptable", while 16 suspects, including members of the imbon aware, were arrested. In 2024, an ex-Prime Minister was sentenced to life imprisonment due to similar allegations for alleged witchcraft.

witch hunt in the context of superstition and violence

The incident not only caused a sensation in Burundi, but worldwide and throws a light on the continuing violence in the country. According to reports from Amnesty International, journalists and critics of the authoritarian regime are continuously fighting against arbitrary arrests, physical attacks and other forms of repression. In the past, human rights groups such as Human Rights Watch have repeatedly documented serious human rights violations by the imbonacure.

Discrimination against certain population groups, such as LGBTI individuals and unmarried women, is also a constant problem in Burundi. In addition, over 86,000 people within the country have been sold due to extreme weather events, while numerous Burundians live as refugees in neighboring countries.

reinforcement of repression

In the course of political oppression, the government has continued to influence the opposition parties. Opposition are regularly arrested, and there are reports on attempted intimidations of journalists and against freedom of the press. A newly introduced election code has increased the requirements for candidates, which also contains the political landscape before the upcoming elections.

The amoshackes of the Imbonerakure and the intensifying situation in Burundi illustrate the challenges that the population faces. While international organizations are trying to put pressure on the Burundian government, the future of the country is uncertain. The brutal incidents as part of this witch hunt are further proof of the deeply rooted problems that the country plague.