Ndayishimiye files for second term as opposition leaders stay out of the race
Burundi's president became the first candidate to file for the May 2027 presidential vote, as 11 small parties backed him.
Burundi's president, Évariste Ndayishimiye of the ruling CNDD-FDD party, filed his candidacy on Friday at the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) in Bujumbura, the economic capital. He is seeking a second seven-year term in the election set for 3 May 2027. He was the first to submit his papers, followed by Abel Gashatsi, candidate of the UPRONA party. The CENI will accept applications until 22 November.
Candidates must provide identity documents, photographs, a medical certificate, a list of 200 supporters and a caution of 100 million Burundian francs. The supporter list must reflect the country's gender, ethnic and regional diversity, though supporters need not belong to the candidate's party. Ndayishimiye warned local administrative officials that they would be held responsible for any disturbances in their areas.
Four other figures have said they intend to run: Gabriel Banzawitonde of the APDR, Francis Rohero of the FPI, Gaspard Kobako of AND Intadohoka and Valentin Kavakure of the FPN Imboneza. Their filings have not yet been confirmed. On 11 November, 11 parties announced their support for the president, pledging to pool their staff, funds and technical resources. None of them won a seat in the June 2025 legislative elections.
Why it mattersOpposition candidates who want to stand must gather 200 supporters and pay a 100 million franc deposit before the 22 November deadline.