Bunyoni arrest buoys Burundi's president but is risky

Significance

Over seven months after removing him from office, President Evariste Ndayishimiye has finally taken the next step to neutralise his rival. The clique of ‘generals’ that rule the country appear to have supported the move, but this could be temporary.

Impacts

• Ndayishimiye may use Bunyoni as a scapegoat for Burundi’s economic problems, but much-needed reforms remain absent.
• Relations with Rwanda will continue to improve, even if Burundi continues to demand the extradition of former coup plotters.
• The climate for international investors will not change; other senior officials will also solicit bribes in exchange for market access.