The Republic of Burundi officially launched its 2025 election campaign season on Friday, May 9, with a symbolic ceremony in Gitega, the country’s political capital. The event marked the formal beginning of the pre-campaign period for the legislative and communal elections scheduled for June 5, and was attended by political party representatives, candidates, and President Évariste Ndayishimiye.

Held at the Ingoma Stadium, thousands of candidates dressed in their party colors paraded before the head of state in what many observers described as a historic democratic milestone. “This is a first in Burundi’s democratic history,” said Jean De Dieu Mutabazi, president of the RADEBU party, who expressed optimism about the peaceful unfolding of the electoral process.

“It’s a very symbolic event,” said Mutabazi, “showing progress in our democratic culture and reducing political animosity between rivals.”

President Ndayishimiye urged neutrality from public administrators and encouraged all candidates to campaign peacefully and within the bounds of the law.

“Let administrative officials remain neutral so that those campaigning can do so in compliance with national laws,” he declared.

Despite the celebratory tone, opposition voices raised concerns over alleged political intolerance on the ground. Speaking on behalf of the opposition, Nestor Girukwishaka, president of the CNL (National Congress for Freedom), condemned ongoing intimidation of his party members.

“In some areas, ruling party officials and local administrators don’t tolerate the presence of opposition parties,” said Girukwishaka. “Our activists are harassed, beaten, and even forced to join the ruling party.”

According to the electoral calendar released by CENI (the National Independent Electoral Commission), the official campaign for legislative and communal elections begins on May 13. This year’s electoral cycle includes three major votes: legislative and communal elections on June 5, senatorial elections on July 23, and neighborhood and hill chief elections on August 25.

Russia marked the 80th anniversary of its victory over Nazi Germany with a grand military parade on Red Square in Moscow, showcasing its military strength amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. The event, held on May 9—Russia’s most important secular holiday—was attended by several foreign leaders, underlining the Kremlin’s efforts to project international influence and defy Western isolation.

Presidents Xi Jinping of China and Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, along with Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić, joined President Vladimir Putin for the commemorations. Vučić’s visit marks his first trip to Russia since the invasion of Ukraine began in 2022, despite EU warnings that such a move could jeopardize Serbia’s EU accession hopes.

In his speech, President Putin praised Russian troops fighting in Ukraine, calling them defenders against Nazism, Russophobia, and antisemitism.

“Russia has been and will be an impassable barrier for Nazism… The truth and fairness are on our side,” he declared, emphasizing national unity and pride in Russia’s “special military operation.”

More than 11,500 troops and 180 military vehicles, including tanks and nuclear-capable missile launchers, took part in the display. The air show featured fighter jets trailing smoke in the colors of the Russian flag.

The celebrations were held under tight security due to recent Ukrainian drone attacks and airport disruptions in Moscow. Internet outages were also reported, likely due to electronic countermeasures.

This year’s Victory Day, while rooted in remembrance of the Soviet Union’s immense sacrifices during World War II, also served as a platform for Putin to solidify domestic support and promote new global alliances amid an increasingly divided international landscape.

Human remains believed to be those of missing South African journalist Sibusiso Aserie Ndlovu and his partner Zodwa Precious Mdhluli have been discovered in Limpopo province, more than two months after they were last seen.

The bodies were found in a remote bush area and were in an advanced state of decomposition.

While DNA confirmation is still pending, media organisations say forensic teams have already identified the remains. Police have arrested five suspects in connection with the case. Authorities reportedly recovered stolen items, including furniture, appliances, and parts of a vehicle linked to the couple.

Ndlovu, founder of the Pretoria-based Capital Live radio station, had been missing with Mdhluli since 18 February. Their deaths have left the media community reeling.

“I am terribly sad. We held out hope… Our deepest condolences go out to the families,” said Elijah Mhlanga, chairperson of the African Media and Communicators Forum.

The case highlights South Africa’s persistent struggle with violent crime. The country recorded over 26,000 murders in 2024—an average of 72 killings per day.