Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye convened a meeting with leaders of 37 political parties and electoral partners on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Kiriri presidential palace. The discussions focused on preparations for the 2027 presidential election. The gathering aimed to identify potential obstacles to the election and collaboratively seek solutions to enhance the political climate and strengthen social cohesion. President Ndayishimiye stated, "During the election, every citizen's voice counts, and their choice must be respected." He added, "It is better that we collectively seek all that could disrupt the smooth running of the electoral process in order to find suitable solutions."
Election Preparations and Goals
The presidential election in Burundi is scheduled for May 3, 2027. Political parties are considered integral to organizing elections that are both peaceful and trustworthy, according to statements made during the meeting. President Ndayishimiye also emphasized that the people are the ultimate source of power, which they exercise through voting. He further stressed the importance of patriotism, stating that love for the homeland is key. Negative comments, the President noted, can tarnish Burundi's international image and have adverse economic effects on the nation.
Key Discussion Points Raised
President Evariste Ndayishimiye outlined three key questions for the assembled party leaders to consider during the meeting. He asked what new measures could be implemented for effective election organization, probed into why those who reject election results tend to manifest immediately after proclamation, and inquired about potential methods to reduce the substantial budget allocated for the 2027 presidential election. The President suggested that budget reductions could redirect funds to other vital national projects. He reiterated that perturbing the electoral process is an attempt to plunge the country into chaos, stressing that such actions should incur severe sanctions. These discussions aimed to identify and address obstacles proactively.
Attendees and Process
The gathering at the Kiriri presidential palace included representatives from 37 political parties, the presidents of both chambers of the Burundian Parliament, the Burundian Ombudsman, and the presidents of the Supreme Court and the Constitutional Court. Also present were members of civil society, the Ceni (National Independent Electoral Commission), observers from previous elections, and representatives from the African Union and the United Nations system in Burundi. Following President Ndayishimiye's introductory remarks, discussions transitioned to a closed-door format to formulate specific recommendations.
Call for Unity and Respect
President Evariste Ndayishimiye emphasized the importance of respect for the law and the choices made by citizens at the ballot box. He stated that these principles must be prioritized throughout the electoral process. According to President Ndayishimiye, "Lors de l’élection, la voix de chaque citoyen compte et son choix doit être respecté" (During the election, every citizen's voice counts, and their choice must be respected). He further urged a collective effort to identify potential disruptions, adding, "C’est mieux que nous cherchions ensemble tout ce qui peut perturber le bon déroulement du processus électoral afin d’y trouver des solutions idoines" (It is better that we collectively seek all that could disrupt the smooth running of the electoral process in order to find suitable solutions).