Burundi Ombudsman Says She Is Being Threatened for Exposing Illegal Activities

Bujumbura, January 28, 2026 - Burundi’s Ombudsman, Aimée-Laurentine Kanyana, has told the National Assembly that powerful individuals are threatening her in an effort to obstruct her work and silence her for exposing illegal activities. Addressing lawmakers, Kanyana said those behind the pressure would have arrested her if they could. “The problem is that they do not arrest the Ombudsman, otherwise there would be people who would have arrested her,” she stated. In response, National Assembly Speaker Daniel Gélase Ndabirabe urged parliamentarians to support Kanyana so she can continue her duties without intimidation. Her remarks come amid broader concerns over pressure on public officials. On December 28, 2025, Finance Minister Alain Ndikumana told the Senate that the management of the fertilizer company FOMI was intimidating him after the government refused to grant more than 50 billion Burundian francs not предусмотр in its contract. Ndikumana said he would continue his work despite the pressure, stressing the need for responsible public spending. Senate President Gervais Ndirakobuca pledged legislative support, saying lawmakers would help confront corruption and defend those who speak the truth.