Burundi: Constitutional amendments pass May 21 /update 5

Event

On Monday, May 21, the Burundian electoral commission officially announced that a majority of voters approved proposed amendments to the country's constitution which would allow President Pierre Nkurunziza to extend his rule to 2034. Over 73 percent of voters backed the proposed changes in the constitutional referendum, held Thursday, May 17. Burundian opposition leaders have denounced the vote as undemocratic and influenced by state-sponsored intimidation, with some calling for Burundians to seek Nkurunziza's removal from office. Related demonstrations, clashes between protesters and security forces, and localized traffic disruptions near potential protests are possible in the coming days and weeks.

Context

The referendum was organized to decide whether to amend the constitution to extend presidential terms from the current five years to seven. The approved changes limit the president to two consecutive terms but do not take into account previous terms, potentially allowing the extension of Nkurunziza's rule to 2034.

Political violence persists throughout Burundi nearly three years after the country's contested July 2015 elections. Nkurunziza was elected to a controversial third term in 2015 even though Burundian law stipulated a maximum presidential tenure of two five-year terms prior to the referendum. While the country appears to be experiencing a period of relative calm (certainly in comparison to the violent outbreaks witnessed in 2015 and 2016), the situation remains worrisome, particularly in Bujumbura, where the risk of politically motivated outbreaks of violence remains. In February, Burundian police threatened to arrest individuals who campaign too early against the referendum and disturb public order; dozens of opposition members have been detained in recent months for promoting a "no" vote.

Advice

Individuals present in Burundi should avoid discussing sensitive political topics in public spaces, avoid all public gatherings and demonstrations (especially those with no visible security presence), and maintain a high level of vigilance at all times. Be extremely vigilant in crowded places such as churches, markets, cafés, and bus stations.