Mwambutsa IV Bangiriceng of Burundi

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King Mwambutsa IV Bangiriceng (1912 - April 26, 1977) was the king of Burundi from December 16, 1915 to July 8, 1966. He was given the title of Mwami, a king in Tutsi culture. He succeeded Mutaga IV Mbikije. Like other Burundian kings, he was an ethnic Tutsi. During the early part of his reign, Burundi was transferred from Germany to Belgium following World War I. He was the leader of Burundi when it was granted independence in 1962, and he created a constitutional monarchy, which suffered much turmoil including the assassinations of at least three prime ministers. He had to continue switching prime ministers to stay in favor of both Hutus and Tutsis.

He was deposed by his son Ntare V in 1966 and fled to Switzerland, where he spent the rest of his life until he died in 1977.

Preceded by Mutaga IV Mbikije

King of Burundi 1915–1966

Succeeded by Ntare V Ndizeye

v • d • e Heads of state of Burundi since 1962 Mwambutsa IV • Ntare V • Micombero • Bagaza • Buyoya† • Ndadaye • Ngeze† • Kinigi* • Ntaryamira • Ntiybantunganya • Buyoya • Ndayizeye • Nkurunziza *interim     †military