Navigating Corruption and Accountability: The State of Law Enforcement in Burundi

Law enforcement in Burundi has undergone significant transformation influenced by the nation’s colonial legacy and subsequent independence struggles. The roots of law enforcement in Burundi can be traced back to the period of Belgian colonial rule, which lasted from 1916 to 1962. During this time, law enforcement was largely handled by a small unit of the Force Publique, a military police force with dual military and civil responsibilities that originated in the Belgian Congo. Members of this force became popularly known as the Bamina, a term derived from the name of the large military base located at Kamina in the Congo.

Upon gaining independence in 1962, Burundi established the National Gendarmerie, or Gendarmerie nationale, as the primary law enforcement agency. Initially organized as a civilian entity, the gendarmerie was eventually integrated into the military structure amid a series of military dictatorships that commenced in 1967. In a significant shift, the Public Security Police (Police de sécurité publique) was established in 1990 to serve as a separate civilian police force, coexisting alongside the Gendarmerie and marking a period of dual law enforcement systems.

Establishment of the National Police of Burundi

The National Police of Burundi (PNB) was officially established in December 2004, a development that marked a new chapter in the nation’s law enforcement history. This establishment occurred in the aftermath of the Burundian Civil War and the signing of the Arusha Accords, which aimed to promote peace, stability, and reconciliation within the country. The PNB was founded with clear objectives: maintaining public order, ensuring the protection of the population, and combating organized crime. One of its primary goals was to unify the police forces and streamline operations under a single Directorate-General, thus eliminating the administrative fragmentation that had characterized the previous law enforcement structure.

The PNB is organized into various specialized units, each focused on distinct areas of law enforcement. These units include:

• Internal Security Police (Police de sécurité intérieure): Responsible for maintaining internal order and public safety.
• Judicial Police (Police judiciaire): Tasked with conducting investigations and gathering evidence for criminal cases.
• Air Police (Police de l’Air): Focuses on law enforcement related to aviation and air travel.
• Border and Aliens Police (Police des frontières et des étrangers): Manages border security and immigration issues.
• Prison Police (Police pénitentiaire): Oversees the management and security of prisons.

A considerable portion of the PNB’s personnel is concentrated in Bujumbura, the de facto capital, as well as in other major urban centers across the country. Officers within the PNB are armed, typically equipped with Kalashnikov-type assault rifles, which are standard for many police forces globally. This arming of personnel reflects the challenges faced in law enforcement and the necessity of being prepared for various security scenarios.

Burundi has been a member of INTERPOL since 1970, which has facilitated international cooperation in combating crime. Additionally, Burundian police forces have participated in peacekeeping missions under the auspices of the United Nations, deploying personnel to various countries within Africa to assist in maintaining stability and security.

Challenges and Criticism

Despite the establishment of the PNB and its objectives, the police force has faced considerable criticism regarding issues such as corruption, lack of accountability, and human rights violations. Corruption has been a persistent issue within the PNB, with numerous reports indicating that it is perceived as one of the most corrupt public institutions in Burundi. Surveys have shown that a significant majority of the population believes that corrupt practices are widespread within the police service. This perception of corruption has undermined public confidence in the PNB, creating a challenging environment for law enforcement.

Efforts to combat corruption within the PNB have been made by the Burundian government, often with support from foreign countries and organizations. Initiatives aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the police force have been introduced, but the effectiveness of these measures has often been limited. The lack of effective citizen oversight is a significant barrier to addressing corruption. While there are theoretically mechanisms for addressing complaints against police misconduct—such as the police ombudsman and the attorney general—these institutions often lack the resources and authority necessary to enforce accountability effectively.

The composition of the PNB has also raised concerns. Many officers are former rebel fighters, a situation that has contributed to a lack of accountability within the force. Reports indicate that the PNB often struggles to respond to crises appropriately and to investigate crimes in a manner consistent with human rights standards. This situation reflects the broader challenges faced by post-conflict societies, where the integration of former combatants into law enforcement can lead to complex dynamics that affect the functioning of these institutions.

Interestingly, despite the widespread criticism and challenges facing the PNB, polls have indicated a paradoxical level of confidence among some segments of the population. Surveys have shown that a considerable percentage of Burundians express respect for the PNB and believe that it is a disciplined force. This phenomenon highlights the complexities of public perception regarding law enforcement in a context marked by both deep-seated issues and a desire for stability.

Human Rights Abuses

The role of the PNB became particularly controversial during the civil unrest that erupted in 2015. Following the announcement of President Pierre Nkurunziza’s decision to run for a controversial third term, protests broke out across the country. The police were frequently deployed to suppress these demonstrations, leading to allegations of widespread human rights abuses. Reports emerged of police using excessive force against protesters, including beatings and shootings, raising serious concerns about the conduct of law enforcement during this tumultuous period.

Human rights organizations were vocal in their criticism of the PNB’s actions during the protests, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to human rights standards. The use of violence against civilians during peaceful demonstrations reflected a troubling trend and drew international attention to the need for reform within the police force.

In response to accusations of police brutality, the United Nations took significant steps to address concerns about the conduct of Burundian police officers. In a notable move, the UN decided to repatriate a contingent of Burundian police personnel from peacekeeping missions abroad. This decision was made in light of concerns that these personnel may have been involved in human rights violations before their deployment, further complicating the narrative surrounding the PNB’s role in law enforcement.

International Relations and Peacekeeping Efforts

Burundi’s participation in international peacekeeping efforts has also been a significant aspect of its law enforcement profile. The PNB has deployed personnel to various United Nations missions across Africa, contributing to peacekeeping operations aimed at stabilizing regions affected by conflict. This involvement provides Burundian police officers with valuable experience in international law enforcement practices and fosters cooperation with police forces from other nations.

However, the deployment of Burundian police personnel abroad has also been met with scrutiny. Concerns have been raised regarding the readiness and professionalism of these officers, particularly in light of allegations of human rights abuses committed by the PNB during domestic operations. The dual role of the PNB as both a national law enforcement agency and a contributor to international peacekeeping efforts creates a complex dynamic, necessitating ongoing evaluation and reform.

Community Engagement and Reform Efforts

In recent years, there have been efforts to enhance community engagement and reform within the PNB. Recognizing the importance of building trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, initiatives aimed at fostering dialogue and collaboration have been introduced. These efforts seek to address the underlying issues of mistrust and corruption that have plagued the PNB and to promote a more transparent and accountable police force.

Community policing models have been explored as a way to strengthen the relationship between the police and the public. By emphasizing collaboration and cooperation, these models aim to empower communities to actively participate in maintaining safety and security while holding law enforcement accountable for their actions. Such initiatives are essential for creating a more positive image of the PNB and restoring public confidence in the police.

The Future of Law Enforcement in Burundi

Looking ahead, the future of law enforcement in Burundi will depend on the successful implementation of reforms aimed at addressing corruption, human rights abuses, and community relations. The challenges facing the PNB are substantial, but with concerted efforts and collaboration between government, civil society, and international partners, there is potential for significant progress.

Strengthening accountability mechanisms, enhancing training and professional development for police officers, and fostering community engagement are crucial steps in building a more effective and trustworthy law enforcement agency. Furthermore, addressing the systemic issues that contribute to corruption and human rights violations will be essential for creating a police force that serves the interests of all Burundians.

In conclusion, law enforcement in Burundi has evolved through a complex interplay of historical, political, and social factors. The establishment of the PNB represented a significant step toward unifying and streamlining law enforcement efforts following years of conflict. However, ongoing challenges related to corruption, accountability, and human rights abuses underscore the need for continued reform and engagement with the community. As Burundi moves forward, addressing these critical issues will be vital for fostering a safer and more just society, where the police can fulfill their mandate effectively and earn the trust of the population they serve.