Consequences of Political Conflict on Citizens in Burundi: The Case of President Pierre Nkurunziza’s Third Term

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the consequences of political conflict on citizens in Burundi, with a specific focus on the Third Term crisis under President Pierre Nkurunziza. The objectives were to assess the conflict's impact on citizens' daily lives, analyze its socio-economic, cultural, psychological, and social cohesion effects, and evaluate the government's role in restoring peace and security. Methodology: The research adopted a mixed-methods design, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Simple random and purposive sampling techniques were used to select a sample size of 376 participants, including 52 key respondents. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS Version 26.0, while qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions held at Mahama Refugee Camp in Kirehe District, Rwanda, and analyzed thematically. Findings and Discussions: The results indicated that the political conflict had a profound negative impact on all areas of Burundian society. Economically, citizens' incomes decreased by 58%, while 60% reported experiencing human rights violations. Over 500,000 people were displaced, leading to increased poverty, weakened healthcare systems, and diminished freedoms of expression. The conflict also triggered political repression, including kidnappings, torture, forced disappearances, and arbitrary imprisonments. International relations deteriorated, and sanctions were imposed on Burundi. The study further highlighted the failures of both the Burundian government and the international community in addressing the crisis effectively. Conclusion: The study concluded that the Third Term political conflict in Burundi caused widespread socio-economic, cultural, and human rights damages, with lasting consequences for national stability. It recommends urgent strategies for the Burundian government and international actors to implement comprehensive peacebuilding measures to restore sustainable peace and security in the country.