United Nations Office in Burundi calls political actors for constructive dialogue and moderation

11 Mar 2014

United Nations Office in Burundi calls political actors for constructive dialogue and moderation

11 March 2014 - The United Nations Office in Burundi (BNUB) said in a communique issued Monday that time has come for the entire Burundian political class to engage in renewed, inclusive and constructive political dialogue, both within each political party as well as between the different parties.

BNUB reminds that, for several months now, he noted political tension in Burundi and a radicalization of positions that are likely to lead to an outright confrontation, as illustrated by recent events.

In its statement, BNUB notes that the current tension occurs at a time when the country ought to be making important decisions to prepare effectively the 2015 elections which are crucial for the consolidation of democracy and peace in Burundi. “However, the realization of these strategic objectives demands the restoration of political dialogue between all Burundian political actors”, the document states.

In this regard, as underlined by the Security Council in its Resolution 2137 (2014), BNUB exhorts Burundian political actors to respect engagements made under the Roadmap which they adopted in March 2013, including the renunciation of violence in favor of dialogue, to resolve their differences.

BNUB asks all Burundian political leaders and their supporters to show moderation and avoid expressing demands that could exacerbate tensions and violence. Furthermore, in exercising their sovereign and legitimate responsibility to maintain order and security, BNUB calls on the authorities to show the greatest restraint and to foster the free exercise of fundamental liberties.