Pontien NDAYIKEJE, a 38-year-old man, has been missing since 7 April 2025 after being abducted from his home by armed men believed to be security agents. The illegal and violent circumstances surrounding his arrest have sparked deep concern among his family, relatives, and human rights defenders.
Originally from Rutana Province, Pontien NDAYIKEJE was living in Bujumbura City, Buyenzi Zone, on Avenue 17, where he resided with his wife and their three children. Politically, he was a member of the CNL party, led by MP Agathon Rwasa, and held local responsibilities as the party’s representative in Buyenzi, Quarter 4 (Cell 4).
🔶 A Brutal Arrest in Broad Daylight
The incident occurred around midday, while Pontien was at home with his family. According to eyewitnesses, a white double-cabin vehicle with tinted windows stopped in front of the house. Two armed men, identified as police officers, got out of the vehicle with their weapons drawn, creating an atmosphere of fear and panic.
Without presenting any arrest warrant, they seized Pontien NDAYIKEJE, violently assaulted him, and forced him into the vehicle. Relatives and neighbors who attempted to ask for explanations were threatened at gunpoint, before the vehicle sped away.
🔶 No Information on His Whereabouts
Since the abduction, no official information has been provided regarding the reasons for his arrest, his place of detention, or his state of health. His family, overwhelmed with anxiety, says it has not been contacted by any judicial or security authority.
A Context of Presumed Political Repression
This disappearance occurs within a deeply troubling context, marked by a recent increase in abductions of CNL party members, particularly those perceived as close to MP Agathon Rwasa. Several individuals abducted under similar circumstances remain unaccounted for to this day, fueling fears of politically motivated enforced disappearances.
Call to Authorities and the CNIDH
The organization King Umurundi Freedom calls on the security services to urgently clarify the circumstances surrounding the abduction of Pontien NDAYIKEJE and to immediately disclose his place of detention.
It also urges the National Independent Human Rights Commission (CNIDH) to promptly take up this case, conduct an independent investigation, and ensure the protection of the fundamental rights of the affected citizens.
Respect for the rule of law, an end to arbitrary abductions, and the protection of political actors are essential requirements for peace and stability in the country.