On the occasion of the celebration of the 243rd independence anniversary, the US Embassy in Burundi has said the 2020 elections will have significant consequences on people.
“Elections are crucial for Burundi. They must be free, transparent, fair and inclusive,” says Eunice Sharon Reddick, Chargé d’affaires of the US Embassy in Burundi.
Ms. Reddick says it is so important for all citizens who fulfill the necessary conditions to participate in the electoral process to “vote for candidates who will respond favorably to their concerns.”
She says Burundians especially younger generations who want a better future, rely on candidates during this election to propose concrete solutions.
“The United States will never call into question the sovereignty of other nations. However, the fundamental rights of our peoples are non-negotiable,” she says.
Bernard Ntahiraja, Assistant to the Minister of Foreign Affairs who represented the government in those ceremonies reassures that the 2020 elections will be free, transparent, peaceful and democratic.
“The government of Burundi would like the US to move with more determination on our sides in friendship, solidarity and respect for the dignity and sovereignty of our people,” he has said.
According to the Burundi National Independent Electoral Commission-CENI, the elections for the president, members of parliament and municipal councils are expected to be held on May 20, 2020.