Burundi is a Central African nation that is home to an estimated 11 million people. The country is a republic with an executive branch led by the president, and a bicameral legislature consisting of a Senate and a National Assembly. The legal system of Burundi is based on both civil law and customary law.
The legal framework of Burundi is established by the Constitution of Burundi, which was drafted in 2005 and amended in 2018. This Constitution is the supreme law of the country, and all other laws must be consistent with its provisions. It establishes the rights of citizens and the system of government, and sets out the structure of the judiciary.
The judiciary of Burundi is composed of civil courts, criminal courts, and the Supreme Court. Civil courts hear disputes between private individuals or companies, while criminal courts deal with offences against the state. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land, and has the power to hear appeals from lower courts.
In addition to the official legal system, Burundi also recognizes customary law, which is derived from the customs and traditions of its various ethnic groups. Customary law is applied in cases where there is no applicable statute or where the parties involved agree to be bound by it.
The Ministry of Justice is the government body responsible for overseeing the administration of justice in Burundi. It is headed by the Minister of Justice, who is appointed by the President. The Ministry is responsible for appointing judges, setting court fees and fines, and providing legal advice and services to the public.