Burundi: Ruling Party Youth League to rally in Bujumbura July 22

Event

The Imbonerakure, the youth league of the ruling National Council for the Defense of Democracy-Forces for the Defense of Democracy party (CNDD-FDD), is set to stage a “demonstration of force” rally on Saturday, July 22, Bujumbura, starting in the early hours of the morning (local time). Although the rally will likely remain non-violent, the Imbonerakure is known to have been involved in instances of rape, abductions, killings, and torture in the past, especially against members of the opposition, and tensions will likely be running high surrounding the gathering.

As a reminder, all public gatherings in Burundi require government pre-approval and are generally monitored by a strong security presence; security forces often intervene using heavy-handed tactics to subdue unrest.

Traffic disruptions, including road closures, are to be expected as participants will gather and march in the center of the capital of Bujumbura.

Context

Political violence persists throughout Burundi in the aftermath of the country's contested July 2015 elections. Gunfire and grenade attacks by armed groups occur on a regular basis, while a number of political opposition parties, human rights organizations, and international NGOs have voiced concerns over the continuation of political violence against the opposition in recent months. Security forces and members of the the ruling party's youth wing, the Imbonerakure, are accused of targeting opponents in violent attacks. The situation remains worrisome, particularly in Bujumbura, where the underlying risk of of politically-motivated outbreaks of violence remains relatively high. On a related note, a number of armed criminals have reportedly crossed into Burundi from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), raising concerns over a general increase in insecurity.

Advice

Individuals present in Burundi should avoid public gatherings, especially those with no visible security presence, and are advised to maintain a high level of vigilance at all times in crowded places such as churches, markets, cafes, and bus stations. Flashpoints of violence should be avoided, including Bujumbura's Cibitoke, Jabe, Kamenge, Kanyosha, Kinama, Musaga, Mutakura, Ngagara, and Nyakabiga neighborhoods, and Bujumbura Rural province.

More generally, individuals in Burundi - especially in Bujumbura - are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.  Travelers should avoid traveling by foot after nightfall, only keep small amounts of cash on hand, and, if driving, park in a secured parking lot close to their destination. Drive with doors locked, windows rolled up, and with all valuables hidden from sight. Keep your phone charged and with you at all times.