MWE Correspondent
Burundi’s President, Évariste Ndayishimiye, has dismissed two senior government ministers as part of a wider cabinet reshuffle and appointed new leaders to take their place, signaling a fresh phase in the administration’s efforts to strengthen governance and policy direction.
In a televised announcement read by the presidential spokesperson, Rosine Guilène Gatoni, the government confirmed that Arthémon Katihabwa, who served as Minister of Justice, Human Rights and Gender, and Jean Claude Nzobaneza, the Minister of Public Works, Transport and Housing, have been removed from their positions. The move comes after less than half a year in office for both ministers, reflecting the president’s willingness to realign his cabinet in response to emerging priorities.
President Ndayishimiye has named Alfred Ahingejeje as the new Minister of Justice, Human Rights and Gender, entrusting him with oversight of Burundi’s legal system and human rights agenda at a time when reforms and adherence to the rule of law remain key to national stability. He also appointed Damien Niyonkuru to lead the Ministry of Public Works, Transport and Housing, placing him at the helm of critical sectors tied to infrastructure development and economic growth.
Political observers say the changes are part of Ndayishimiye’s broader strategy to refresh his government and boost performance in ministries that play central roles in public service delivery and national development. Since taking office in 2020, Ndayishimiye has periodically adjusted his cabinet, citing the need to enhance efficiency and ensure that leadership aligns with the government’s evolving policy goals.
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Analysts note that such reshuffles are not uncommon in Burundi’s political landscape, where executive decisions often reflect shifting priorities within the ruling party and efforts to maintain cohesion among stakeholders. The reallocation of ministerial portfolios could also signal preparation for upcoming domestic and regional engagements.
This latest reshuffle follows earlier changes under President Ndayishimiye, who previously replaced senior officials in moves aimed at reinforcing stability and consolidating his administration’s agenda. The president’s leadership style has been characterised by active management of his cabinet, a pattern that observers say reflects both political pragmatism and an emphasis on results.
Burundi’s political system has continued to evolve under Ndayishimiye’s leadership, and the appointment of new ministers may have implications for how key domestic policies, particularly in justice and infrastructure, are implemented going forward. The country’s governance dynamics increasingly draw international interest, especially as Burundi engages with regional partners within the East African Community and across the African continent.
President Ndayishimiye, a former army officer turned head of state, assumed office following the death of his predecessor in 2020, and has since steered the country through a period of transition marked by diplomatic reengagement and efforts to address governance challenges. His handling of ministerial appointments continues to shape perceptions of his administration’s priorities and responsiveness to both domestic expectations and regional dynamics.
For context, the role of ministers in Burundi’s government is central to implementing policies that affect daily life, from justice reform to transport infrastructure, and changes at this level often signal shifts in strategic focus. The new appointments will now be under scrutiny as citizens and political watchers alike assess how the reshaped cabinet addresses the nation’s pressing needs.
