[Burundi] Press release of support and solidarity with the Burundian people

We, Africtivistes (League of African cyber-activists for democracy), note that despite the efforts by various African and international organizations, the situation in Burundi continues to deteriorate.

Arbitrary arrests and detentions, torture, arbitrary suspension and closure of some civil society organisations and media houses, arbitrary executions, targeted assassinations – which have increased in recent weeks- risk degenerating into general violence which will have disastrous consequences for Burundi and the whole region.

We, Africtivistes, affirm the value we attach to the respect of the Peace and Reconciliation Agreement for Burundi reached in Arusha, Tanzania in August 2000, also known as the Arusha Accords, and the cornerstone of peace, security and stability in Burundi- the agreement was reached to end ethnic war between Tutsi and Hutu.

We, Africtivistes, reject the use of violence to reach political goals, whoever the perpetrators of those abuses were/are.

We, Africtivistes, support all citizens’ initiatives aimed at ensuring a return to compliance with the 2000 Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Agreement for Burundi.

We, Africtivistes, will support Burundi activists and bloggers in establishing a civic response.

We, Africtivistes, remain fully mobilised in support of Burundians and renew our commitment to a democratic Africa.