Two lifeless bodies were discovered over the past weekend in the commune and province of Gitega, central Burundi, sparking calls for independent investigations from residents. Some residents of Ngundu hill expressed doubts about a reported suicide, claiming one victim was killed, tied up, and positioned to simulate a suicide. Local residents are demanding thorough and independent investigations into the deaths, emphasizing the need for transparency given the sensitive nature of the incidents. These demands for independent scrutiny highlight a prevailing concern among the local populace regarding the circumstances surrounding such tragic discoveries.
First Body Found in River
The body of Crescence Nizigiyimana was discovered on Sunday, July 26, 2026, in the Ruvyironza river, which delineates the Kabanga and Giheta zones within the Gitega commune and province. Immaculée Ndikuriyo, the head of the Kabanga zone, confirmed the finding, noting that the precise circumstances of the death remain unknown. Prior to her disappearance, Crescence Nizigiyimana had been participating in a prayer session. She was not located until her body was found in the river. She reportedly suffered from mental disorders, a detail that adds another layer of complexity to the investigation into her death. Her body, which had begun to decompose, was interred on the same Sunday on the Gihehe hill, a swift burial necessitated by the state of decomposition. The discovery of her body in the river has raised questions among residents about how she came to be there and the events leading up to her death.
Second Death Raises Suspicion
On the same Sunday, a second lifeless body was discovered on Ngundu hill, also in the Gitega commune and province. The victim was identified as Déo Singirankabo, a 61-year-old father of six, found hanging by a rope attached to the frame of his home. Elias Ndikumana, the deputy head of Ngundu hill, confirmed the discovery, stating that the motives for Singirankabo's death have not yet been established. Investigations into the incident have commenced, but no suspect has been apprehended to date. Residents of Ngundu hill have suggested that land disputes are among the most probable motives for the death, pointing to ongoing conflicts over property as a potential trigger. Some residents of Ngundu hill have voiced strong doubts about the suicide theory, claiming that Déo Singirankabo was killed, tied up, and subsequently placed in a position to simulate suicide. This serious accusation shows the community's distrust in the initial assessment and fuels their calls for a more thorough and impartial inquiry.
Broader Insecurity Concerns
Gitega province is among the regions in Burundi where criminal cases have been regularly reported in recent months. Reports from Ligue Iteka indicate several cases of assassinations, disappearances, and other violations of the right to life across the country, painting a grim picture of the security situation. The Conference of Catholic Bishops of Burundi has expressed concern over the rise in insecurity and criminality, showing a broader pattern of unrest that affects numerous communities. Fortuné Gaëtan Zongo, the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Burundi, has also denounced the persistence of human rights violations, noting the international community's awareness of the challenges. These concerns reflect a challenging security environment beyond the recent discoveries in Gitega, suggesting systemic issues that require urgent attention. The pattern of reported incidents suggests a need for sustained attention to human rights and public safety across various Burundian provinces, with calls for accountability and protection for citizens.
Official Rejection of Criticism
Accusations regarding the deaths, particularly the claims of foul play and simulated suicide, have not yet been confirmed by the authorities overseeing the investigation. The government's stance contrasts with the concerns raised by civil society and religious organizations. President Évariste Ndayishimiye has rejected these criticisms, accusing the Catholic bishops of presenting a negative image of the country. This official response further complicates the situation, creating a divide between community concerns and governmental assurances regarding the state of security and human rights.