UN chief urges Burundian President to ‘pursue path of inclusivity and reconciliation’

In a statement issued by his spokesperson in New York, Ban took note of President Nkurunziza’s inauguration and reiterated his call for all Burundian stakeholders to undertake an inclusive and transparent political dialogue under the leadership of the East African Community (EAC) Facilitator, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda.

“He reiterates the readiness of the United Nations to support such a dialogue,” the statement continued, adding that the creation of a government of national unity, as called for in the 6 July EAC summit communiqué, needs to derive from “such a genuine and open dialogue, which is necessary to overcome existing deep political divisions.”

The Secretary-General also noted President Nkurunziza’s stated intention to serve as President of all Burundians and “he urges the President to pursue a path of inclusivity and reconciliation in this spirit,” the statement concluded.

Burundi has been in the grips of a political crisis since late April, when Nkurunziza was put on the ballot for a controversial third term. Tensions intensified when he won the July 21 election.

More than 100,000 people have fled to neighbouring countries in the weeks ahead of and following the polls.

Tensions remain high – just last week, the UN human rights office warned that the situation is spiralling out of control amid a spate of deadly election related violence – and Ban has repeatedly appealed for an end to politically – motivated violence and urged all Burundians to peacefully settle their differences without delay.

During a phone call with Nkurunziza on 6 August, the Secretary-General urged him to resume the political dialogue, which had been suspended since 19 July. He also encouraged the Burundian authorities to work closely with the Ugandan-led facilitation on behalf of the East African Community.

Photo: Desire Nimubona/IRIN