Condemning Attacks in Burundi by Unidentified Groups, Secretary-General Calls on All Leadership, National Authorities to Refrain from Further Violence

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

The Secretary-General condemns the attacks by groups of unidentified assailants on military camps in Bujumbura early this morning.  Such acts of violence can lead to a further destabilization of the situation in Burundi.

The Secretary-General urges the leadership of these groups and the national authorities to refrain from any further escalation of violence or retaliation and stresses that anyone responsible for ordering or committing human rights violations will be held individually accountable.

The Secretary-General appeals to all national stakeholders to uphold the rule of law.  He urges the authorities to help create the conditions for a credible and inclusive dialogue that can address the deep political challenges facing the country.  The United Nations extends its full support and assistance to all efforts aimed at promoting a peaceful settlement of the crisis.