Burundi’s opposition parties announced Friday they will boycott all upcoming key elections, saying it was not possible to hold a fair vote following weeks of violence over President Pierre Nkurunziza’s bid to cling to power.
Weeks of unrest followed President Pierre Nkurunziza announcement in April that he would seek another five years in office. He justified the move, which his opponents said was unconstitutional and foreign governments have criticized, on the basis of a favorable court ruling.
“The opposition parties unanimously decided to boycott the elections, which were prepared by the CENI [Electoral Commission],” Charles Nditije, one of the representatives of the opposition, said.
Agathon Rwasa, leader of the National Liberation Forces (FNL), also said he would be boycotting the electoral process. Up until 26 June, Rwasa had maintained he would continue running as a presidential candidate, but had rejected the idea of a transitional government.
While legislative and municipal elections will be held on 26 June, the embattled presidential elections are now planned for 15 July.
