Pierre-Claver Ndayicariye, Chairman of Burundi's Commission for Truth and Reconciliation (CVR), met with representatives of the Muslim community of Rumonge on Saturday, June 27, 2026, to discuss land disputes. During this significant meeting, Ndayicariye formally requested the Burundian government establish an indemnity fund for victims of such conflicts. He has specifically written to the government of Burundi to initiate the establishment of this key fund. The CVR has registered over 4,000 land conflict and property issue files from the commune of Rumonge. Ndayicariye stated, "Plus de 4 000 dossiers déjà reçus," emphasizing the sheer volume of cases that require resolution. He also urged, "Privilégier les arrangements à l’amiable," encouraging amicable settlements as a primary method for resolving these numerous disputes.
Push for Victim Compensation
An indemnity fund for victims is explicitly provided for by Protocol 4 of the Arusha Agreement, according to the CVR. Pierre-Claver Ndayicariye, Chairman of the CVR, proposed that the Burundian government initiate funding for the indemnity fund, encouraging partners to contribute subsequently once the government has taken the lead. This approach aims to secure broad support for the fund. Some individuals require compensation because their lands are currently occupied by public infrastructures, including essential services such as schools, health centers, and offices. These individuals, whose property has been repurposed for public use, are seeking fair restitution. Participants at the meeting also expressed a strong desire for the CVR to compensate those whose money was stolen from banks during the events of 1972, citing the principle of state continuity, which holds the state responsible for past actions. A Muslim woman specifically requested compensation for a Volvo N86 truck stolen around 1972 in Rumonge, noting a particular instance of loss. Others reported losing valuable assets such as boats, motorcycles, and machines, expressing hope for compensation for these significant material losses. Some individuals further requested the CVR to make efforts to facilitate the return of houses illegally occupied since 1972 to their rightful owners, seeking to rectify long-standing injustices. Repatriates and residents of Rumonge have collectively suggested the swift establishment of the indemnity fund, showing the urgency of the matter for the affected communities.
Addressing Past Grievances
Decisions issued by the former National Commission for Land and Other Properties (CNTB) that were poorly rendered will be annulled, while those deemed well-rendered will be maintained, ensuring fairness and rectifying past errors. The Commission for Truth and Reconciliation (CVR) continues to receive and examine files that remained pending before the former CNTB, demonstrating its commitment to addressing a backlog of cases. Reports indicate that false decisions from the former CNTB, bearing fake seals, are circulating within the commune of Rumonge, complicating the resolution process. In a related development, the communal administration in Nyanza identified an individual manufacturing these fake seals, pointing to efforts to undermine the integrity of land ownership. Meanwhile, the first decisions of the CVR in the province of Burunga are nearing public communication, marking a significant step towards transparency and justice in that region.
Path Forward and Mediation
Pierre-Claver Ndayicariye, Chairman of Burundi's Commission for Truth and Reconciliation (CVR), urged parties involved in land disputes to prioritize amicable settlements. Ndayicariye stated, "Privilégier les arrangements à l’amiable," emphasizing this approach as a key and efficient method for conflict resolution. He advised that after reaching such agreements, the mediation results should be submitted to the CVR for validation, ensuring that these settlements are officially recognized and legally binding. The Chairman noted the significant caseload, noting, "Plus de 4 000 dossiers déjà reçus," showing the necessity for efficient resolution methods to manage the overwhelming number of cases. This push aims to streamline the process for the numerous land conflict and property issue files registered with the CVR, facilitating a more peaceful and just resolution for all parties involved.