The political activities of the opposition parties in Burundi are limited due to the political crisis and current insecurity following President Pierre Nkurunziza’s decision to run for a third term last year.

The opposition is currently divided, with some opting to remain in the country to push for change from within and others leaving the country.

Former opposition leader Agathon Rwasa, who is currently the deputy parliament speaker, said Burundians should learn to be tolerant of each other and work for the benefit of the country.

READ: Burundi opposition chief Agathon Rwasa takes top parliament job

Political environment

However, the current political environment does not favour a strong opposition party or leaders.

It is very difficult to oppose a Bill in parliament because majority of the seats belong to the ruling CNDD FDD party. Also, some members of the opposition have opted to work with the government.

Most of the political parties in Burundi are ethnic-based in a country that has experienced inter-ethnic conflict for almost four decades.

The current political crisis could be said to be a continuation of historical inter-ethnic conflict.

Pierre Claver Nsengiyumva a political analyst in Bujumbura said politicians should sustain the gains made since the first peaceful elections in 2005.

Analysts say there is a need for the country’s political parties to forge new relations and see how they can engage in fair competition for the general good of the country.

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