In a meeting with leaders of political parties and independent candidates in the upcoming elections, the Independent National Human Rights Commission [CNIDH] has this 23 April urged them to not involve children in political rallies.
Jacques Nshimirimana: “We no longer want to see children being involved in politics as we saw it in previous elections,”
“We no longer want to see children being involved in politics as we saw it in previous elections,” said Jacques Nshimirimana, Commissioner in charge of promoting children’s rights at CNIDH.
He calls on politicians to respect and promote children’s rights.
“We have seen cases of children being used in electoral campaigns, chanting hatred songs and insulting other political leaders,” said Mr Nshimirimana. We want children’s rights to be respected as provided for by the Burundian and international law.
He mentioned Article 4 of the electoral code which stipulates that only persons aged at least 18 are allowed to participate in the elections.
“Preventing children from going to school to conduct political activities or asking them to insult other members of political parties is a serious violation of children’s rights,” added Mr Nshimirimana.
He calls on parents and school officials to not involve children in political rallies.
According to the electoral commission calendar, the electoral campaign will kick off on Monday 27 April.
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