Concerns grow over detained Burundian journalist Sandra Muhoza

March 22, 2025 – Burundi – 

Sandra Muhoza, a journalist for the online outlet La Nova Burundi, has been at the center of a contentious legal battle that underscores growing concerns over press freedom in Burundi. Arrested in April 2024, Muhoza was charged with “undermining the integrity of the national territory” and “racial aversion” after sharing information in a private WhatsApp group about alleged government-led arms distribution.

In December 2024, the High Court of Mukaza in Bujumbura sentenced her to 21 months in prison—18 months for undermining national integrity and three months for racial aversion. This sentence was notably less than the 12-year term initially sought by prosecutors.

Muhoza’s detention and sentencing have drawn condemnation from international organizations, including Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), who argue that her case exemplifies the use of judicial measures to suppress independent journalism.

As of March 2025, concerns have intensified due to repeated postponements of her appeal hearings, raising questions about the fairness and transparency of the judicial process.

Muhoza’s case highlights the precarious state of press freedom in Burundi, where journalists face significant risks for reporting on sensitive topics. Her continued detention serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by media professionals in the region.