ECOSOCC Statement on the situation in Burundi
The African Union Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) is deeply concerned about the unfolding political, security and humanitarian situation in the Republic of Burundi.
ECOSOCC deplores the continued acts of violence against civilian people, civil society, media houses and public institutions. Violence against peacefully protesting citizens is unacceptable and must stop. We remain deeply worried about the plight of people fleeing for their safety from Burundi to neighbouring countries.
ECOSOCC strongly condemns the coup attempt in Burundi led by Major General Godefroid Niyombare to oust Pierre Nkurunziza, the president of Burundi. Changing governments through violence and military force is unconstitutional and undemocratic action.
“We urge all political sides in Burundi to show restraint, end violence, embrace national dialogue and take all possible actions to restore constitutional order, rule of law, peace and stability while ensuring that the human rights of all Burundians are respected and protected,” said Honourable Joseph Chilengi, Presiding Officer of ECOSOCC.
ECOSOCC particularly calls for full respect and protection for civil society and free media in Burundi who became under attacks from different political forces to advance their political agendas. Burundian civil society must have free space to operate. Closed media houses must be reopened and allowed to resume their operations without fear of violence and intimidations.
While welcoming the efforts of the African Union (AU) and the East Africa Community (EAC), ECOSOCC emphasizes the inevitability for all Burundian political forces to respect the principles of the Arusha Agreements to ensure lasting peace, unity and democratic governance.
“The people of Burundi must be allowed to elect democratic, legitimate and constitutional government through inclusive, credible and transparent elections, held in a conducive environment,” declared ECOSOCC Presiding Officer.