Secretary-General, Condemning Killings in Burundi, Reminds Government of Responsibility to Protect Civilians, United Nations Personnel

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns the killing of at least seven people, including a United Nations staff member, in a bar in the Kanyosha neighbourhood of Bujumbura on 7 November.  Preliminary reports suggest that the attack was conducted by persons in police uniform.

The Secretary-General reiterates his call for an immediate end to the recurring violence and killings.  He urges the Government to swiftly conduct a full investigation and ensure the perpetrators of this terrible crime are brought to justice.  He reminds the Government that it is responsible for protecting civilians, and ensuring the safety and security of United Nations personnel in the country.

The Secretary-General has seen the troubling reports today that several people, including a policeman, were killed during the ongoing forcible disarmament campaign in Bujumbura.  He strongly urges all Burundian security forces to exercise maximum restraint in order to avoid a further escalation of the tense situation in the country.

The Secretary-General reiterates his appeal to all national stakeholders, in particular the Government of Burundi, to keep the interests of the people of Burundi uppermost and resolve all outstanding issues through an inclusive dialogue.