Burundi’s new strongman offers some prospect of change
Monday, February 3, 2020
Subject
Burundi's presidential succession and political outlook.
Significance
The ruling National Council for the Defence of Democracy-Forces for the Defence of Democracy (CNDD-FDD) on January 26 held a party congress to nominate its candidate for the May 2020 presidential elections. While there had been much speculation that incumbent President Pierre Nkurunziza might try to hold on to power, the party instead elected General Evariste Ndayishimiye, the CNDD-FDD secretary-general.
Impacts
- Instability within the CNDD-FDD could offer opportunities for renewed armed opposition activity, with potential for regional spillover.
- Ongoing investigations by the International Criminal Court into abuses during his tenure will cloud Nkurunziza’s retirement.
- Regional countries will welcome the transition as the best hope for a reduced risk of fresh instability.
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