The whereabouts of a human rights defender and a journalist are unknown as Burundi imposes further restrictions on civil society on top of an already severe clampdown since the beginning of the crisis in April 2015.

Rights defender Marie-Claudette Kwizera and journalist Jean Bigirimana were kidnapped in December 2015 and July 2016 respectively.

Many journalists and human rights defenders have fled the country since the start of the crisis emanating from President Pierre Nkhurunziza clinging to power after the expiry of his two terms.

Critics remaining in the country said their work has become more difficult and dangerous, with increased surveillance having a chilling effect on victims and witnesses of crimes under international law. They say victims of human rights violations are terrified to speak out.

Rights group Amnesty International said combined with a recent string of repressive measures, including reprisals against human rights lawyers, closure of non-governmental organisations and introduction of new controls on the work of NGOs, Burundi was creating an environment hostile to human rights work.

“Amnesty International calls on Burundi to reverse recent repressive measures and stop stifling debate on issues critical to the future of the country,” said a spokesperson.