Burundi communication minister found dead in his vehicle near Bujumbura

Thursday 16 April 2026 - 12:30

The Minister of Communication and Media in Burundi was found dead early Thursday morning inside his vehicle in a rural area near Bujumbura, according to administrative and police sources cited by AFP.

The body of Gabby Bugaga was discovered by local farmers inside the driver’s seat of a pickup truck that had veered off a lightly trafficked road and stopped in a palm plantation. The area, located in the Kivoga region about 10 kilometers north of the economic capital, is known for its vast agricultural fields.

Authorities reported that the vehicle was found roughly 10 meters from the main road. Images of the scene circulated on social media before being confirmed by official sources.

A senior police officer stated that the minister had sustained a head injury, while the right side and rear of the vehicle showed significant damage. However, officials have not yet determined the exact cause of death.

The circumstances surrounding his presence in the area, particularly at night and without his usual security detail, have raised numerous questions. An investigation has been launched to clarify the events leading up to the incident.