Burundi detains RTNB cameraman over media house fire
Bonaventure Niyongabo, 60, held by intelligence services since November 6 amid questions about a fire at the public broadcaster.
Bonaventure Niyongabo, a senior cameraman at Burundi's national broadcaster RTNB, has been detained by the National Intelligence Service (SNR) since November 6. Niyongabo, known as "Gihuha," was arrested in a bar in Bujumbura and taken to SNR headquarters. His detention has raised concerns among colleagues and family, who say he has no link to a recent fire at the RTNB. The fire, which occurred days before his arrest, was initially attributed to a short circuit by RTNB officials.
Niyongabo, aged 60, is reportedly being questioned about the RTNB fire. Three other RTNB staff members, Yollande Niyubahwe, Claudette Butoyi, and Prince Ntororwe, were questioned in connection with the incident but have since been released. Niyongabo's colleagues told SOS Médias Burundi that he participated in efforts to extinguish the fire alongside military personnel and question the reasons for his continued detention. His family is demanding his immediate release.
Some RTNB staff members have anonymously reported discriminatory practices within the media house, alleging that certain employees are sidelined due to their perceived opposition to the ruling party. One anonymous staff member described working in a hostile environment. Niyongabo's colleagues are calling for his release so he can resume his professional activities as he nears retirement age and for fair treatment of all workers at RTNB.
Why it mattersThe detention of a senior journalist and allegations of discrimination at the state media house raise concerns about press freedom and fair employment practices in Burundi.