Burundi’s Senate has adopted a new right-to-information law, creating a legal framework for citizens and journalists to request information held by public institutions.

The legislation was unanimously approved during a Senate plenary session in Gitega and establishes procedures for requesting public information. It also provides for a National Commission on Access to Public Information that would oversee implementation and hear appeals.

The move could become an important development in Burundi’s political and institutional landscape, particularly as citizens seek greater transparency from public authorities.

However, the legislation includes exceptions covering areas such as national security, privacy and ongoing judicial investigations. These restrictions are expected to influence how broadly the new right can be exercised once the law is implemented.

The Senate’s October programme also shows continued parliamentary scrutiny, with senators scheduled to discuss reports from visits to communes and question government ministers later this week.

The new law places transparency and access to public information at the centre of Burundi’s evolving political debate.