The position of vice-president of the Republic of Burundi was created in June 1998, when a transitional constitution went into effect.

He appointed Frédéric Bamvuginyumvira, a Hutu member of the Front for Democracy in Burundi (FRODEBU), as 1st vice-president.

Mathias Sinamenye, a Tutsi member of Buyoya's Union for National Progress (UPRONA) party, was appointed 2nd vice-president.

On 29 August 2005, President Pierre Nkurunziza nominated Martin Nduwimana and Alice Nzomukunda for the posts of 1st and 2nd vice-president.

The remaining vice-president, who will have limited powers, will be selected from a political party and ethnic group that differs from those of the President.