Evariste Ndayishimiye declared victor of Burundi’s bitter presidential election

Evariste Ndayishimiye, the retired army general and candidate of the governing party, has been declared the winner of Burundi's presidential election, securing 68.72% of the votes, according to the election commission. His main rival, Agathon Rwasa, the leading opposition leader, garnered 24.19% of the votes. The announcement has sparked accusations of rigging by Rwasa and his supporters, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. Political and Economic Analyst, Jean Claude Nkundwa, shed light on the situation in a recent interview on CNBC Africa. Nkundwa emphasized that Rwasa's allegations of irregularities were not unexpected, as he had hinted at potential foul play during the campaign. Rwasa has indicated his intention to challenge the results in the constitutional court, a move that could have significant implications for the country's political landscape. Despite the controversy surrounding the election, Nkundwa noted that Rwasa's decision to pursue legal channels rather than resorting to street protests is a positive step towards a peaceful transition of power in Burundi. However, he cautioned that true stability and peace may still be elusive given the complex challenges facing the nation. Ndayishimiye's decisive victory, while anticipated by many, has not fully convinced the opposition of the legitimacy of the outcome. Nkundwa highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in addressing the concerns raised by Rwasa and his supporters, underscoring the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting democratic principles. As the incoming president prepares to assume office in August, the focus now shifts to his agenda and approach to governance. Nkundwa pointed out that Ndayishimiye will inherit a host of issues ranging from unresolved crimes to economic challenges, necessitating a strategic and inclusive leadership style. The role of outgoing President Pierre Nkurunziza in the new administration remains unclear, with Nkundwa speculating on the extent of Nkurunziza's influence in a post-election Burundi. Nkurunziza's proposed positions within the party structure signal a potential shift in power dynamics, though the full implications are yet to be realized. Looking ahead, Nkundwa discussed Ndayishimiye's background as a top general within the ruling party and his reputation for engaging with various factions, including the opposition. While Ndayishimiye is viewed favorably for his clean record and regional diplomacy, questions linger about his ability to navigate the entrenched system and deliver on his promises. The constitutional provisions granting extensive powers to the president raise concerns about the concentration of authority, prompting calls for checks and balances to safeguard against potential abuses. Nkundwa emphasized the importance of monitoring Ndayishimiye's early actions to gauge the direction of his presidency and its impact on Burundi domestically and internationally.