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Ban welcomes African Union decision on addressing political and security crisis in Burundi

Burning barricades in Bujumbura, as turmoil erupted in Burundi.
Desire Nimubona/IRIN
Burning barricades in Bujumbura, as turmoil erupted in Burundi.

Ban welcomes African Union decision on addressing political and security crisis in Burundi

In a phone call today, United Nations Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon and Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, discussed the situation in Burundi, with Mr. Ban welcoming recent decision by the AU Peace and Security Council on addressing the country’s political impasse.

According to a statement issued by Mr. Ban’s spokesperson, the Secretary-General welcomed the decision made by the African Union’s Peace and Security Council on 17 October to address the political impasse and deteriorating security situation in Burundi.

“He noted that such comprehensive and resolute action could offer Burundi the opportunity to put an end to the continuing violence and find a consensual political solution [on] the way forward,” the statement continued.

Further to the statement, the UN chief assured the Chairperson of the African Union Commission that the Organization stands ready to provide any support necessary to advance the implementation of the measures agreed upon by the members of the AU Peace and Security Council.

According to media reports, the African Union announced on 17 October that it would launch an investigation into violations of human rights in Burundi. It also called for implementation of targeted sanctions against those contributing to the rising violence in the country.