“Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza has “declared war” on his people by clinging onto power”, a leading opposition politician said Thursday, demanding he step down to allow a “political transition.” ~ Leonard Nyangoma
These accusations from the opposition follow Burundi’s ruling party terming the re-election of President Pierre Nkurunziza a “divine miracle”
Leonard Nyangoma, a veteran political leader who heads the opposition CNARED coalition, said Nkurunziza had “declared war” on his people and demanded his “immediate departure” from office.
Nyangoma described the situation in Burundi as extremely serious saying that both the political, socio-economic situations were deteriorating day by day.
Nkurunziza’s efforts to run for a third term in office sparked protest, failed coup and fleeing of Burundi citizens who are currently refugees in neighbouring countries.
His supporters claimed that he had a right to run for office, despite the unrest the decision provoked. The elections held last month were boycotted by the opposition and the international community condemned them as being neither free nor fair.
Security forces are targeting opponents of Nkurunziza with “numerous arrests, torture, killings and atrocities,” Nyangoma said, speaking from Europe, where he is now based. AFP reported.
There are fears both within the country and outside that Burundi could plunge back into civil war.
