Politics and Violence in Burundi
The Language of Truth in an Emerging State

Reveals the neglected history of decolonisation and violence in Burundi through the political language of truth, citizenship and violence.

Aidan Russell (Author)

9781108499347, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 17 October 2019

330 pages
23.5 x 15.7 x 2.2 cm, 0.57 kg

'This book reveals the power and potential of national history as Russell puts language at the center of African politics. Violence and truth, speech and borders, lies and citizenship constitute the history of Burundi after 1962, and they remain in constant tension with every memory and speech about the postcolony.' Luise White, Professor Emerita, University of Florida

Telling the neglected history of decolonisation and violence in Burundi, Aidan Russell examines the political language of truth that drove extraordinary change, from democracy to genocide. By focusing on the dangerous border between Burundi and Rwanda, this study uncovers the complexity from which ethnic ideologies, side-lined before independence in 1962, became gradually all-consuming by 1972. Framed by the rhetoric and uncertainty of 'truth', Russell draws on both African and European language source material to demonstrate how values of authority and citizenship were tested and transformed across the first decade of Burundi's independence, and a post-colony created in the interactions between African peasants and politicians across the margins of their states. Culminating with a rare examination of the first postcolonial genocide on the African continent, a so-called 'forgotten genocide' on the world stage, Russell reveals how the postcolonial order of central Africa came into being.

Introduction: talking politics and watching the border prologue, 1796–1959: people of the land
Part I. 1959–1961: 'To See the Son of a King': 1. Ukuri ni kumwe: talking truth
2. Ibigendajoro: rebels in the name of the king
Part II. 1961–1967: 'A Most Total Anarchy': 3. Abanyabihuha: talking loyalty
4. Ukuri n'ubutungane: the fate of the Bourgmestres
Part III. 1968–1972: 'Please Send Me a Car to Take Them Away': 5. Politiques bw'insaku: talking vigilance
6. Couper tout ce qui dépasse: truth and violence
Conclusion: the Court of Baribuka
Bibliography.

Subject Areas: African history [HBJH]