Burundi President Pardons Journalist Floriane Irangabiye

Floriane Irangabiye, a journalist sentenced to 10 years in prison for allegedly undermining Burundi's national integrity, has been pardoned after 18 months. Her release was announced by President Évariste Ndayishimiye, following appeals from Irangabiye and her lawyers, citing her deteriorating health while incarcerated. Local human rights organizations have cautiously welcomed the pardon but are urging the government to release other unjustly imprisoned individuals, noting the presence of thousands of political prisoners in Burundi. Irangabiye's case has drawn international condemnation, with concerns raised by the United Nations regarding her imprisonment. Despite some improvements in international relations since Ndayishimiye took office in 2020, Burundi's record on human rights and press freedom remains poor, ranking 108th out of 180 countries according to Reporters Without Borders. Another journalist, Sandra Muhoza, remains in custody on similar charges, highlighting ongoing issues within the country's justice system.