The United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council in Geneva has voted to extend its oversight mandate on Burundi for another year, citing grave concerns over an alarming increase in extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances ahead of the country’s May 2027 presidential election.
The resolution, adopted with 22 votes in favour, 7 against, and 17 abstentions, officially renews the mandate of UN Special Rapporteur Fortuné Gaëtan Zongo. Under this mandate, the Special Rapporteur is tasked with monitoring, documenting, and reporting on the overall human rights situation in Burundi, making recommendations to the UN Human Rights Council and General Assembly, and offering technical assistance to help the nation fulfill its international human rights obligations.
European Union representatives strongly advocated for maintaining the international monitoring mechanism to prevent political instability as the 2027 elections approach, while Burundian officials condemned the decision, dismissing the mandate as a politicised instrument targeting state institutions.
–ChannelAfrica–
