In statement issued on 12 June, Heather Nauert, Spokesperson for the US Department of State has said the US welcomes Burundi president announcement that he does not intend to seek a fourth term, reaffirming the promise he made to Burundian people in 2015.
Heather Nauert, “The president’ decision would be a strong step forwards for Burundian democracy.”
Burundi president Pierre Nkurunziza announced on 7 June after promulgating the new Constitution adopted through 17 May referendum that his term in office as president would run out in 2020. “I will not go back on a promise that I made in 2015,” he said. In the inauguration ceremonies after winning 2015 elections, president Nkurunziza said “his term would be the last.”
According to Heather, the president’ decision would be a strong step forwards for Burundian democracy. “This would set a positive example for other leaders in region,” says Heather.
The spokesperson for the US Department of State calls on Burundi government to take transparent steps to improve governance, respect for human rights, civic space, and media freedom. “These measures are essential for free, fair and open political competition ahead of 2020 elections,” reads the statement signed by Heather Nauert.
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