Secretary-General Condemns Slaying in Burundi of Central African Peacekeeping Mission’s former Deputy Force Commander, Urging Prompt Investigation

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

The Secretary-General condemns the assassination of Brigadier General Athanase Kararuza, his wife and daughter, in Bujumbura today.  Brigadier General Kararuza had served in senior positions in both the African-led International Support Mission to the Central African Republic (MISCA) and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA).  The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to all affected by this tragic loss.

The assassination of Brigadier General Kararuza comes in the wake of several instances of politically motivated assassination attempts in Burundi over recent weeks, including yesterday’s attack on Martin Nivyabandi, Minister for Human Rights, Social Affairs and Gender, as well as those on prominent members of the security forces.  All such acts of violence serve no purpose other than to worsen the already volatile situation in Burundi.  The Secretary-General urges that a rigorous and prompt investigation of these events is undertaken.

The Secretary-General underlines that a political process is the only way for Burundians to put their country back on the path of national reconciliation and peace.  He calls on all political leaders, including those in exile, to firmly renounce the use of violence in pursuit of political agendas and commit to an inclusive and genuine dialogue. The United Nations will continue to provide its full support and assistance to all efforts aimed at promoting a peaceful settlement in Burundi.