He went from rebel fighter to president — then became one of Burundi’s most controversial leaders.Pierre Nkurunziza’s story was anything but ordinary.In 2005, after years of civil war, he became Burundi’s president as the CNDD-FDD transformed from a rebel movement into a political party.For many Burundians, his election represented hope that the country could finally move beyond war.Then came 2015.Nkurunziza announced that he would seek a third term. His decision triggered mass protests, a failed coup attempt, and a major political crisis.He won the election, but the controversy followed him for the rest of his presidency.In 2020, Nkurunziza chose not to seek another term. His successor, Évariste Ndayishimiye, won the election.But before the transition was complete, Nkurunziza died suddenly on 8 June 2020, aged 55.A former rebel commander had become president, ruled Burundi for 15 years, and left behind a legacy that remains deeply divided.