AU, UN appeal for stable, peaceful environment for Burundi elections

Bujumbura, BURUNDI

Ahead of the presidential and local elections in Burundi on Wednesday, the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) on Sunday urged the authorities to provide a safe and secure environment for citizens to cast their votes.

 Party members attend the congress of the opposition Congres National pour la Liberte (National Freedom Council) party, in the capital, Bujumbura

In a joint statement, the partners said that they have been following the electoral campaign and remain concerned about reports of “intimidation and violent clashes between supporters of opposing sides.”

“The two organizations encourage all entities involved in organizing the May 20, 2020 elections, the defence and security forces and state-owned media to fully contribute to preserving a stable and peaceful environment, prerequisite for free, inclusive, fair, transparent and credible elections in Burundi,” the statement said.

“They urge all political actors to refrain from all acts of violence and hate speech, and resort to dialogue, to enable the holding of consensual and peaceful elections. They also encourage the Burundian authorities to ensure and facilitate the full participation of women during this electoral process.”

The AU Commission and the UN Secretariat also called on political parties to abide by the Code of Conduct they signed in December.

Authorities in the East African country were also urged to implement preventive measures to protect citizens from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Last week, a UN Commission of Inquiry expressed alarm over violence and human rights abuses in the run-up to the vote.

Members also deeply regretted the government’s decision to expel four staff members of the World Health Organization from the country. – Africa