NDI is saddened to learn about the murder of Hafsa Mossi, who represented Burundi in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Ms. Mossi was shot dead yesterday by two unknown gunmen near her home in Gihosha, Bujumbura. Since the political crisis in Burundi erupted in April 2015, many civilians and several high-ranking military leaders have been murdered. Ms. Mossi was not considered a party hardliner, and her death marks the first assassination of a senior politician.
More than 500 people have been killed since the beginning of the crisis, and another 270,000 have fled to become refugees in neighboring countries.
Women play a critical role during crisis, war and post-conflict reconstruction because they are skilled at organizing their communities and safeguarding the basic necessities that bolster day-to-day living. They are peacekeepers, relief workers and mediators. The role of politically active women is particularly vital in violent and unstable circumstances. These brave women bring new and critical perspectives, networks and solutions to the table.
“Hafsa Mossi was a voice of moderation in an otherwise turbulent environment,” said Christopher Fomunyoh, regional director for Central and West Africa at the National Democratic Institute. “Her assassination robs Burundi -- and indeed the region -- of a leader who tried to help her country forge a path towards sustainable peace.”
Prior to her election to the EALA representing Burundi in June 2012, Hafsa Mossi served as Burundi’s Minister for East African Community Affairs. She was also a former BBC Swahili service journalist.
NDI expresses its deepest sympathy to Ms. Mossi’s family, friends and constituents. The Institute promises to stand up so violence is not the cost of participating in politics -- anywhere.
