Bernard Busokoza

Bernard Busokoza (born August 6, 1953) is a Burundi Tutsi politician who served as the Vice President of Burundi from October 2013 to February 1, 2014.

Early life and education

Busokoza was born on August 6, 1953, in Mugamba Commune, Bururi Province, Burundi. In 1974, he graduated from the University of Burundi with a degree in economics.

Business career

Busokoza has held various senior positions across the country in the telecommunications field.

He was vice chairman of the Board of Directors of Meridien Biao Bank from 1988 until 1991. And From 1996–1999, he was CEO of Afritel Burundi (VoIP provider). From 2000 to 2008 he was chairman of the board of directors of Africell Burundi (mobile network).

Vice Presidency

In October 2013, Therence Sinunguruza resigned as vice president and Busokoza assumed the position.

On February 1, 2014, after Busokoza opposed his plans to scrap presidential term limits, Pierre Nkurunziza, the President of Burundi, decided to dismiss Busokoza, sparking a major political crisis in Burundi. Some even compared the crisis to the South Sudanese Civil War. On 19 October 2020 the Supreme Court of Burundi sentenced Busokoza and 18 others to prison for involvement in the 1993 coup attempt and murder of President Melchior Ndadaye.

Personal life

Busokoza is a father of 6 children. He practices Catholicism.