Floriane Irangabiye, a talk-show host imprisoned for undermining Burundi’s national integrity, has been granted a full pardon by the Burundian presidency. Irangabiye, who was serving an 18-month sentence of a 10-year term, received the announcement of her release on Thursday.
Previously living in Rwanda and running the critical Radio Igicaniro, Irangabiye returned to Burundi two years ago to attend a family funeral. Her arrest and subsequent imprisonment were linked to her media company’s outspoken criticism of the Burundian government.
The pardon comes after Irangabiye and her legal team appealed to President Évariste Ndayishimiye, citing her worsening medical condition in prison. Local rights groups have welcomed the decision but are calling for the release of other detainees they claim are unjustly imprisoned. ACAT Burundi emphasized the need for respect for justice and human rights, while FORSC highlighted the plight of many political prisoners still in detention.
Sandra Muhoza, another journalist facing similar charges, remains in custody. Despite improvements in international relations and some reforms under President Ndayishimiye, analysts argue that significant human rights issues persist in Burundi.
