SECURITY COUNCIL PRESS STATEMENT ON BURUNDI

The following Security Council press statement on Burundi was read out today by Council President Karen Pierce ( United Kingdom):

The members of the Security Council were briefed on the situation in Burundi by the Executive Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Youssef Mahmoud.

The members of the Security Council reiterated their concern at the recent confrontation between the Palipehutu-Forces nationales de liberation (FNL) and the national defence forces of Burundi, following attacks by the FNL in violation of the Comprehensive Ceasefire agreement.  They stressed the need for a cessation of hostilities.  They urged the parties to implement fully the Comprehensive Ceasefire Agreement.

The members of the Security Council noted with satisfaction that an FNL delegation had returned to Bujumbura and that the Joint Verification and Monitoring Mechanism had resumed its work, which constitutes a significant step to re-launch the negotiation process.  They called on the entire leadership to also return to Bujumbura.  They urged the parties to seize this opportunity to definitively consolidate peace in Burundi, by engaging without reservations in dialogue to overcome their differences, and to reach rapidly a concerted, peaceful and sustainable solution to the current crisis.

The members of the Security Council expressed support and encouragement for the efforts of the Political Directorate, of South Africa, as Facilitator, and of the regional initiative to back the peace process.

Moreover, the members of the Security Council emphasized their concern at the current political tension and the paralysis of the National Assembly.  They called on all of Burundi’s political parties to engage constructively to find an early solution to the current impasse and return to the spirit of reconciliation and dialogue that had led to a successful transition.

The Members of the Security Council urged the Government to fulfil its commitment to protect all Burundians, regardless of their political affiliation, and to prevent impunity for perpetrators of violence and violations of human rights, while adhering to the rule of law.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the continued engagement of the Peacebuilding Commission and, in particular, the report of the Chairperson of the Burundi country-specific configuration regarding the recent field visit.  They also reiterated their support for the action taken by the United Nations Integrated Office in Burundi (BINUB) to enable the country to return to lasting peace and stability, including the assumption of an active political role, in consultation with other international partners in Burundi.  They urged the international community to continue to support the political process in Burundi.

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