Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa Proclaims His Faith in Justice Before an Audience of 500 Participants
“A testimony is a legacy for future generations,” says Annabelle Giudice in her contribution to Iwacu on September 3, 2017, titled “Standing Tall – A Legacy for Future Generations.”
The Alliance of Burundians in Canada had the privilege of hosting the “Burundian Mandela”, Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa, in Ottawa, giving 500 Burundians living in Canada the opportunity to hear his words on October 7, 2017, at École Secondaire de la Salle.
For over three hours, in a packed auditorium, three icons, all known for their “clear and incorruptible conscience,” illuminated the audience.
Alongside Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa stood Belgian lawyer Bernard Maingain and Burundian journalist-writer Antoine Kaburahe. Through his book “Standing Tall”, Kaburahe immortalized Mbonimpa, a tireless advocate for human rights.
Deeply moved by the warm welcome but ever wise and humble, “the Burundian Mandela” questioned aloud: “Who am I, what have I done, and what do I deserve to merit such attention?” What a testament to his humility and integrity—this man who has remained steadfast through time and adversity, unshaken by the numerous national and international recognitions he has received. His question was not merely about the remarkable turnout (490 participants) for the book presentation of “Standing Tall”. Mbonimpa was also profoundly touched by the attention he received from Burundians and many Canadian dignitaries upon his arrival in Canada. He admitted to being moved to tears, saying it only reinforced his unwavering commitment to justice and human rights—the very mission that defines his life.
In short, Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa is a source of pride for peace-loving Burundians, an inspiration for young people in search of role models, especially in a time when some claim the title of hero with no merit other than burying the values that have long kept Burundi afloat.
Echoing this sentiment, Belgian lawyer Bernard Maingain praised “the Burundian Mandela” not by embellishing his image but by portraying him as he truly is—a symbol of human rights. Maingain acknowledged that Mbonimpa’s work and determination inspire him to continue the fight for justice. He declared, “As long as justice is not served for the countless victims of atrocities, we will never remain silent.” The audience erupted in applause, but Maingain was unfazed. He saw it simply as encouragement from those equally determined to fight tirelessly for peace and justice in Burundi, for international investigations, and for accountability—especially through the International Criminal Court (ICC).
The Role of the International Criminal Court (ICC)
The ICC is not invoked here for “exotic” reasons, but because the Burundian justice system remains manipulated by the ruling power, lacking any independence to uphold the democratic principle of the separation of powers, as Montesquieu envisioned.
Thus, all eyes are on the ICC, whose founding treaty, the Rome Statute, obliges signatory states to collaborate with international justice. If they fail to do so, the Court asserts its jurisdiction.
French professor André Gishaoua captured this reality in an article published in Le Point on October 9, 2017, titled “Central Africa: A Problem with Democracy?” He wrote:
“Even in countries under the most aggressive authoritarianism, structured resistance groups exist whose voices can be heard. One of the most crucial tasks is documenting abuses. These records will serve as evidence when prosecutions become possible. Documenting crimes remains the last power and ultimate hope for the resistance. Even in a distant future, these elements can weigh heavily on those who impose themselves as lifelong presidents.”
The Trio: Mbonimpa, Kaburahe, and Maingain
No account of this trio would be complete without mentioning Antoine Kaburahe, a journalist and author. His book “Standing Tall” is not his first; in 2003, he published “Burundi: The Wounded Memory.” Kaburahe also leads Iwacu, a media group operating in Bujumbura—where hostility towards a free press is barely concealed. The resilience of Iwacu is remarkable, and Kaburahe attributes its longevity to “rigorous journalism and unwavering professionalism.”
Regarding his latest book, “Standing Tall”, Kaburahe takes no personal pride in it. His journalistic talent is undeniable, but he insists that the true author is his subject—Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa, who shared his story with him. Kaburahe describes the book as a “genuine legacy for future generations,” echoing Annabelle Giudice’s words.
The life of Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa—dedicated to his family, country, and, above all, human rights—is presented as a model of humility, wisdom, and love for others. For both Kaburahe and Maingain, Mbonimpa bears no resentment toward those who “killed him three times”: he miraculously survived a gunshot wound, lost his son-in-law, and later his 24-year-old son, both murdered by those who sought to silence him forever.
Despite these devastating trials, which nearly broke his spirit, his resolve never wavered. “Standing Tall”, as Bernard Maingain noted, means that words like “hatred and resentment” have no place in Mbonimpa’s vocabulary.
Beyond the living testimony that Kaburahe has so skillfully captured in his book, the event served as an open invitation to anyone who has witnessed Burundi’s reality to document it. “Written records endure,” the saying goes. They transcend time, becoming an invaluable treasure for future generations.
A Call to Action from Canada
The Raoul Wallenberg Centre for Human Rights partnered with the Alliance of Burundians in Canada to organize this event. Irwin Cotler, founder of the Centre, former Canadian Minister of Justice, and renowned human rights advocate, paid tribute to Mbonimpa in a video message. He stated that Mbonimpa reminded him of another great man he once defended—Nelson Mandela. Cotler urged Canada to “help combat indifference and inaction in the international community and mobilize consciences to put an end to atrocities in Burundi.”
In parallel with this event, the Alliance of Burundians in Canada and the Raoul Wallenberg Centre held a press conference at the Canadian Parliament to sound the alarm on human rights violations in Burundi. They also met with Canadian officials, the parliamentary human rights commission, elected representatives, media outlets, and international organizations.
Among the key advocacy points were:
- The return of Burundian soldiers deployed abroad to maintain peace at home.
- Maintaining pressure and sanctions on the Burundian regime until it agrees to an inclusive dialogue.
- Encouraging the Great Lakes region to assist victims of the current government.
- Advocating for Burundian refugees facing threats in camps like Kamanyola and Nduta.
- Urging Canada to support the UN Refugee Agency and welcome more Burundian refugees, accelerating sponsorship processes.
A Memorable Visit
The presence of the Mbonimpa-Kaburahe-Maingain trio in Canada was a breath of fresh air for Burundians who had the chance to meet them. The President of the Alliance of Burundians in Canada, André Dunduri, expressed his gratitude for their visit, praising their commitment to justice and victims’ rights. He emphasized that the flame they keep alive is crucial for strengthening the fight for peace and justice in Burundi.
From Montreal to Toronto, via Ottawa, the spirits of peace-loving Burundians soared. The trio reassured them that the crimes committed in Burundi are systematically documented and that the world is paying attention.
Written in Ottawa, October 13, 2017
© Alliance of Burundians in Canada (ABC)