A prominent talk-show host has been granted a pardon after serving nearly two years of a 10-year sentence for allegedly undermining Burundi’s national integrity.
Floriane Irangabiye, known for her critical stance against the Burundian government through her media company, expressed her elation upon receiving the news. From Bubanza Jail, she shared her joy, stating, “Today is an extraordinary day in my life, my children’s and all my family’s, as I look forward to moving freely after nearly two years in prison.”
Burundi has long struggled with press freedom, currently ranking 108th out of 180 countries on the global index compiled by Reporters Without Borders.
Prior to her imprisonment, Irangabiye was based in neighboring Rwanda, where she operated Radio Igicaniro. Her arrest occurred in August 2022 when she returned to Burundi for a family funeral, leading to her sentencing in January of the following year.
The pardon announcement came after Irangabiye and her legal team petitioned President Évariste Ndayishimiye for her release. Family members have indicated that her health has significantly deteriorated during her incarceration.
Expressing gratitude, Irangabiye thanked everyone who championed her cause, from family members to human rights activists. She offered special thanks to President Ndayishimiye for his decision, wishing him well for the future.
Irangabiye is expected to be released soon, and local human rights organizations have responded cautiously to the news. They are urging the government to extend similar mercy to others imprisoned under questionable circumstances.
ACAT Burundi emphasized that “justice and human rights must be respected for all,” while FORSC highlighted that “thousands” of political prisoners remain in dire conditions across Burundian jails. Notably, another journalist, Sandra Muhoza, who faces charges akin to those of Irangabiye, continues to be detained.
Burundi has a turbulent history marked by political violence and suppression of dissent under former President Pierre Nkurunziza, who passed away during the pandemic. Since President Ndayishimiye took office in 2020, there have been signs of improved international relations and some domestic reforms, but experts stress that human rights violations persist and more comprehensive change is necessary.
