By Matthew Russell Lee
UNITED NATIONS, August 4 -- As in Burundi the crackdown on those opposing or even questioning the third term for Pierre Nkurunziza continued, now a journalist covering the killing of Adolphe Nshimirimana has been beaten by security forces, and human rights defender Pierre Claver Mbonimpa attacked.
On August 4, Inner City Press asked incoming President of the UN Security Council for August, Ambassador Joy Ogwu of Nigeria, what to expect on Burundi during the month. She said the space has been left in the Security Council's program of work for such emergencies.
At the August 4 noon briefing, Inner City Press asked UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq about the mediation in Burundi; he replied that the UN hopes in the near future to announce someone to lead the UN's work on Burundi. Video here. When?
Inner City Press asked Deputy Permanent Representative Alexis Lamik of France, the Council's "penholder" on Burundi, whether any meeting has been scheduled. Not at this stage, he said.
Later on August 4, the Security Council issued this statement:
"The members of the Security Council strongly condemned the killing of General Adolphe Nshimirimana on 2 August and the violent attack on Pierre Claver Mbonimpa on 3 August. They noted that there is no place for violence and called on all actors to remain calm.
"The members of the Security Council expressed concern that the security situation in Burundi is deteriorating rapidly, following an electoral period marked by violence and reports of violations and abuses of human rights.
"The members of the Security Council appealed to the government of Burundi, as well as all political actors, to resume an inclusive dialogue without delay. To this end, they reaffirmed their support for regional engagement, in particular by the East African Community and the African Union, in calling for restraint and in pursuit of a political resolution to the crisis. The members of the Security Council remained committed to supporting long term peace and stability in Burundi."
"The members of the Security Council expressed concern that the security situation in Burundi is deteriorating rapidly, following an electoral period marked by violence and reports of violations and abuses of human rights.
"The members of the Security Council appealed to the government of Burundi, as well as all political actors, to resume an inclusive dialogue without delay. To this end, they reaffirmed their support for regional engagement, in particular by the East African Community and the African Union, in calling for restraint and in pursuit of a political resolution to the crisis. The members of the Security Council remained committed to supporting long term peace and stability in Burundi."
Back on August 3, Inner City Press asked UN Secreaty General Ban Ki-moon's spokesman Stephane Dujarric about Nkurunziza's security forces beating and torturing journalist Esdras Ndikumana. Video here.
Ban's spokesman said the UN was aware. But why wasn't it included in Ban's statement that day praising Nkurunziza?
On August 4, Inner City Press asked Ban's deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq about the future of the MENUB mission, if the UN had visited Mbonimpa or tried to ensure protection for his family, and about the status of any mediation.
While it appears that no UN visit to Mbonimpa has been made, Haq in his answer to Inner City Press say that the UN will "hopefully sometime in the near future announce someone who can lead the UN efforts on Burundi."
The questions came rolling in, to Inner City Press and presumably to the UN: who? When? Could the third time, after Said Djinnit then Bathily, be the charm? We'll have more on this.
On August 3, the UN put out this "read-out" of Ban's work on Burundi:
"The Secretary-General held a conference call today with H.E. Mr. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, and H.E. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, to discuss the situation in Burundi.
The Secretary-General reiterated his strong condemnation of the killing, this weekend, of General Adolphe Nshimirimana and expressed his concern over its implications for security in Burundi. He expressed his full support for President Museveni’s efforts to facilitate an inclusive political dialogue in Burundi on behalf of the East African Community.
The Secretary-General called for the swift resumption of the dialogue to defuse mounting tensions and pave the way for the formation of a government of national unity. It was agreed that the United Nations, the East African Community and the African Union should continue working closely together in a coordinated and unified approach to find a sustainable solution to the crisis in Burundi."
The Secretary-General reiterated his strong condemnation of the killing, this weekend, of General Adolphe Nshimirimana and expressed his concern over its implications for security in Burundi. He expressed his full support for President Museveni’s efforts to facilitate an inclusive political dialogue in Burundi on behalf of the East African Community.
The Secretary-General called for the swift resumption of the dialogue to defuse mounting tensions and pave the way for the formation of a government of national unity. It was agreed that the United Nations, the East African Community and the African Union should continue working closely together in a coordinated and unified approach to find a sustainable solution to the crisis in Burundi."
We'll stay on this.
Here was Ban's belated statement:
"The Secretary-General notes with great concern the continuing deterioration of the security environment in Burundi following an electoral period marked by violence and the violation of human rights, including the right to life.
"In this context, the Secretary-General strongly condemns the killing of General Adolphe Nshimirimana on 2 August. He welcomes President Nkurunziza's message to the nation to remain calm and to the competent authorities to expeditiously investigate this assassination in order to bring the perpetrators to justice. He calls on the Burundian authorities to investigate diligently other recent political assassinations.
"The Secretary-General renews his appeal to all Burundians to resume an inclusive dialogue without delay and peacefully settle their differences under the facilitation of President Museveni as mandated by the East African Community. The Secretary-General remains committed to supporting peace consolidation and conflict prevention efforts in Burundi."
"In this context, the Secretary-General strongly condemns the killing of General Adolphe Nshimirimana on 2 August. He welcomes President Nkurunziza's message to the nation to remain calm and to the competent authorities to expeditiously investigate this assassination in order to bring the perpetrators to justice. He calls on the Burundian authorities to investigate diligently other recent political assassinations.
"The Secretary-General renews his appeal to all Burundians to resume an inclusive dialogue without delay and peacefully settle their differences under the facilitation of President Museveni as mandated by the East African Community. The Secretary-General remains committed to supporting peace consolidation and conflict prevention efforts in Burundi."
After Dujarric read out the belated statement, Inner City Press asked about government security beating journalist Esdras Ndikumana. Dujarric indicated that the UN system is aware. But why then was it not in Ban's statement praising Nkurunziza? It's like Ban calling the elections "broadly peaceful."
With Ban slated to be in the UN press briefing room less than an hour later, Inner City Press for the Free UN Coalition for Access asked why Ban would not taken even a single question. Video here; Periscope here. That question remains, and will be pursued.
The US State Department statement, calling for restraint, said:
"The United States condemns the murder of General Adolphe Nshimirimana in Bujumbura today and urges calm and restraint in the aftermath of the attack. We call on all sides to renounce violence and to redouble their efforts to engage in a transparent, inclusive, and comprehensive political dialogue.
"The path forward must address foundational issues, including respect for human rights, freedom of the press and other fundamental freedoms, and respect for the Arusha Agreement and its power-sharing provisions. Restoration of dialogue is urgent, and all parties must work together in pursuit of a consensus, peaceful path forward for the people of Burundi."
"The path forward must address foundational issues, including respect for human rights, freedom of the press and other fundamental freedoms, and respect for the Arusha Agreement and its power-sharing provisions. Restoration of dialogue is urgent, and all parties must work together in pursuit of a consensus, peaceful path forward for the people of Burundi."
But where was Ban Ki-moon? He was not at the UN on August 2 with many countries' Permanent Representatives, working on and agreeing to a post-2015 development agenda text. But he quickly issued a statement on that, and seemed sure to brag about it with US President Barack Obama on August 4. But still silent on Burundi.
After the government refused to attend the East African Community mediation sessions, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on July 23 blithely "took note" of what he called the "broadly peaceful conduct of polling."
On July 28 the UN Security Council belatedly held closed door consultations about Burundi, the Council's first meeting on the country since July 9. Before the meeting ended, the Ambassador of France, the penholder of the Council on Burundi, had left. While the session was closed, afterward Inner City Press asked participants both on and off the record what was said.
Inner City Press on background was told that the idea of a shortened third term for Nkurunziza had been raised in the meeting. On the record, at the UN Television stakeout, Inner City Press asked the Council's president for July Gerard von Bohemen of New Zealand if this had arisen.
From the New Zealand mission's transcription:
Inner City Press: Burundi, I wanted to ask you whether there was any discussion of a government of national unity and in connection with that a possible short third term?
A: There was a strong support for the idea of a government of national unity. It’s recognised that there isn’t consensus as to what that might mean. There was reference by the Assistant-Secretary-General that for some that means a shorter third term but it’s not clear that that’s an accepted parameter for anybody at this stage.
On July 27, Inner City Press attended - after an initial request to keep it out - the UN Peacebuilding Configuration meeting on Burundi, then went and asked UN Spokesman Stephane Dujarric:
Inner City Press: On Burundi, I wanted to ask, there was a peacebuilding configuration meeting in Conference Room 5 and the representative of, I guess, the UN’s Human Rights Office said there is now, since 22 July, six AU [African Union] human rights monitors in the country, but the UN has no contact with them, because the Government hasn't somehow permitted it. I wanted to know, one, is it the UN system they can't… I heard you from in podium say repeatedly how the UN works with the AU, likes the AU, the AU is going to solve it, why would it be the UN can't contact the human rights monitors of the AU? And does Ban Ki-moon acknowledge that there is some… his statement about broadly peaceful is inconsistent as perceived with the MENUB report just out this hour?
Spokesman Dujarric: No, I don't think it's inconsistent. In fact, I think the MENUB report does talk about, you know, that the election day was relatively peaceful and conducted adequately. However, as MENUB says, the overall environment was not conducive for a free and fair, credible election process. So there, I don't agree with your compare and contrast exercise. On the AU monitors, this is the first I've heard of it. I can check.
Spokesman Dujarric: No, I don't think it's inconsistent. In fact, I think the MENUB report does talk about, you know, that the election day was relatively peaceful and conducted adequately. However, as MENUB says, the overall environment was not conducive for a free and fair, credible election process. So there, I don't agree with your compare and contrast exercise. On the AU monitors, this is the first I've heard of it. I can check.
While seven hours later no information was provided, Inner City Press at 4:30 pm on July 27 asked the President of the UN Security Council for July, Gerard von Bohemen of New Zealand, if finally there would be a Security Council meeting on Burundi (the first since July 9), now that the MENUB report was out. Yes, he said, there'd be consultations on July 28 at 3 pm.
The briefers will be Department of Political Affairs official Taye-Brook Zerihoun and MENUB Officer in Charge Issaka Souna, by video from Bujumbura. We'll be there.
Inner City Press on July 23 asked one of Ban's Associate Spokespeople Vannina Maestracci on what basis Ban "noted" as he did a "peaceful conduct of polling," while she continued to say wait for the UN's MENUB mission's report. Video here. She said she would not "dissect every word" of Ban's statement. How about one word: peaceful?
On July 24, after Nkurunziza was declared the winner and the East African Community said it was neither free nor fair, Inner City Press asked another UN spokesperson at the day's noon briefing what Ban had meant by "broadly peaceful," in light of the EAC finding and for example an Amnesty International report on abuses.
This spokesperson said that given Ban's previously warnings of violence, he had been "relatively speaking" by saying things were peaceful. Video here.
Finally Inner City Press asked where Ban is, "taking note." Ban is "away from the office," while his Public Schedule continues to say "all appointments are internal."
The day before on July 22 Inner City Press at the UN noon briefing asked the UN what it was doing:
Inner City Press: yesterday, I'd asked Farhan about these reports of at least two deaths during the voting, and he said that the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) had these four monitoring teams out. I understand it takes them a few days to put together their electoral assessment. But, does that side of the UN have anything to say about actual physical violence directed at those voting or not voting?
Associate Spokesperson Vannina Maestracci: Nothing from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights right now… but you're right, they do have four teams on the ground, regional teams that are mobile. And as soon as we hear back from them and from MENUB, from the Electoral Mission, we will let you know.
Associate Spokesperson Vannina Maestracci: Nothing from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights right now… but you're right, they do have four teams on the ground, regional teams that are mobile. And as soon as we hear back from them and from MENUB, from the Electoral Mission, we will let you know.
While still waiting, Ban Ki-moon on July 23 issued this statement:
"The Secretary-General takes note of the broadly peaceful conduct of polling in the Burundian presidential elections on 21 July. He calls on all parties to continue to remain calm and immediately resume an inclusive political dialogue to resolve their differences and address the challenges facing the country.
"The Secretary-General reminds the Burundian authorities of their responsibility to guarantee and protect the safety and security of the civilian population and ensure an end to further acts of violence as well as accountability for any human rights violations committed.
"The Secretary-General calls on the Burundian parties to engage in good faith in the political dialogue putting Burundi’s national interests first and fully determined to implement the relevant outstanding provisions of the 6 July East African Community (EAC) summit outcome document, under the high-level facilitation of President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. The United Nations remains committed to working closely with the EAC and African Union (AU) to help find a lasting solution in Burundi.
"In this regard, the Secretary-General welcomes the deployment of AU human rights observers and military experts aimed at helping prevent an escalation of violence and facilitating a peaceful resolution of the serious political crisis affecting Burundi."
"The Secretary-General reminds the Burundian authorities of their responsibility to guarantee and protect the safety and security of the civilian population and ensure an end to further acts of violence as well as accountability for any human rights violations committed.
"The Secretary-General calls on the Burundian parties to engage in good faith in the political dialogue putting Burundi’s national interests first and fully determined to implement the relevant outstanding provisions of the 6 July East African Community (EAC) summit outcome document, under the high-level facilitation of President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda. The United Nations remains committed to working closely with the EAC and African Union (AU) to help find a lasting solution in Burundi.
"In this regard, the Secretary-General welcomes the deployment of AU human rights observers and military experts aimed at helping prevent an escalation of violence and facilitating a peaceful resolution of the serious political crisis affecting Burundi."
UNrelevant.
Also on July 22, Inner City Press asked Ambassador Francois Delattre of France, the "penholder" in the UN Security Council on Burundi, if there would be a briefing about the situation there. "I will think about that," he said. (Inner City Press asked again on July 23 and got a laugh, perhaps out of politeness.)
Later on July 22, Inner City Press asked the Security Council's president for July, Ambassador Gerard von Bohemen of New Zealand, if there would be a briefing on Burundi, from MENUB. From the NZ UN transcript:
Inner City Press: About Burundi, now that this election took place, some people were killed during it, is there going to be any kind of Council briefing or to hear from MENUB their review of it?
A: So we’re waiting to hear back from MENUB so then we’ll be in a better position to make a decision about when next to discuss the issue.
On June 21 Inner City Press asked the Deputy Spokesperson, video here, transcript here:
Inner City Press: in Burundi, there are reports of a number of deaths that have taken place during the day's polling, and I'm wondering, is that something that the UN, either the human rights side or MENUB, can confirm at this time before they issue a written report?
Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq: I don't have any details to share on that. You've seen the reports, as we all have done. The High Commissioner for Human Rights Office also has staff from four regional offices deployed from Bujumbura, among which are two mobile teams who are working closely with security staff and the UN Electoral Observation Mission. And as I said before you got in, we have teams from the Mission, MENUB, deployed to all of the country’s 18 provinces, and there's a total of 21 teams of 3 observers each being deployed.
Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq: I don't have any details to share on that. You've seen the reports, as we all have done. The High Commissioner for Human Rights Office also has staff from four regional offices deployed from Bujumbura, among which are two mobile teams who are working closely with security staff and the UN Electoral Observation Mission. And as I said before you got in, we have teams from the Mission, MENUB, deployed to all of the country’s 18 provinces, and there's a total of 21 teams of 3 observers each being deployed.
Earlier on July 21, UK Minister for Africa, Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP, said:
“The Burundian government has failed to ensure the necessary conditions for credible, inclusive and peaceful elections. I therefore do not consider these elections legitimate. Since April, 77 people have been killed and many arrested; over 170,000 Burundians have become refugees and freedom of expression has been curbed. The Burundian government’s refusal to engage in political dialogue has destabilised the country.
“I urge the Burundian government to accept the reality on the ground and to uphold the spirit of the Arusha Agreement. I call for calm and restraint from all sides. Otherwise, the significant progress Burundi has made since the end of the civil war is in danger of being lost.”
“The Burundian government has failed to ensure the necessary conditions for credible, inclusive and peaceful elections. I therefore do not consider these elections legitimate. Since April, 77 people have been killed and many arrested; over 170,000 Burundians have become refugees and freedom of expression has been curbed. The Burundian government’s refusal to engage in political dialogue has destabilised the country.
“I urge the Burundian government to accept the reality on the ground and to uphold the spirit of the Arusha Agreement. I call for calm and restraint from all sides. Otherwise, the significant progress Burundi has made since the end of the civil war is in danger of being lost.”
On July 21, the US State Department issued this statement:
"The United States warns that elections held under the current conditions in Burundi will not be credible and will further discredit the government.
"The legitimacy of the electoral process in Burundi over the past few months has been tainted by the government’s harassment of opposition and civil society members, closing down of media outlets and political space, and intimidation of voters. Dozens have been killed, and as many as 167,000 Burundians are now refugees in neighboring nations.
"The government’s insistence on going forward with Presidential elections on Tuesday risks its legitimacy in the eyes of its citizens and of the international community. More serious is the risk of unraveling the fragile progress made through the implementation of the Arusha Agreement, which states clearly that no Burundi president shall serve more than two terms in office.
"We commend the East African Community and the Government of Uganda for their efforts to encourage political dialogue, and are disappointed that the Government of Burundi has thus far failed to participate in good faith in this dialogue. We are deeply concerned that Foreign Minister Nyamitwe also failed to approve entry for African Union human rights monitors in advance of the election, preventing the multitude of allegations of human rights violations and abuses from being properly investigated.
"We underscore our commitment to helping seek accountability for those who commit or instigate politically-motivated violence and other human rights abuses in Burundi.
"Attempts by the Government of Burundi to deny citizens the ability to choose their leadership freely, without intimidation and threat of violence, will force the United States to carefully review all aspects of our partnership not yet suspended, including the imposition of visa restrictions on those responsible for -- or complicit in -- promoting instability in Burundi through violence.
"We strongly urge all parties to recommit themselves to upholding the Arusha Agreement and its power-sharing arrangement, the cornerstone of peace and security over the past decade in Burundi."
"The legitimacy of the electoral process in Burundi over the past few months has been tainted by the government’s harassment of opposition and civil society members, closing down of media outlets and political space, and intimidation of voters. Dozens have been killed, and as many as 167,000 Burundians are now refugees in neighboring nations.
"The government’s insistence on going forward with Presidential elections on Tuesday risks its legitimacy in the eyes of its citizens and of the international community. More serious is the risk of unraveling the fragile progress made through the implementation of the Arusha Agreement, which states clearly that no Burundi president shall serve more than two terms in office.
"We commend the East African Community and the Government of Uganda for their efforts to encourage political dialogue, and are disappointed that the Government of Burundi has thus far failed to participate in good faith in this dialogue. We are deeply concerned that Foreign Minister Nyamitwe also failed to approve entry for African Union human rights monitors in advance of the election, preventing the multitude of allegations of human rights violations and abuses from being properly investigated.
"We underscore our commitment to helping seek accountability for those who commit or instigate politically-motivated violence and other human rights abuses in Burundi.
"Attempts by the Government of Burundi to deny citizens the ability to choose their leadership freely, without intimidation and threat of violence, will force the United States to carefully review all aspects of our partnership not yet suspended, including the imposition of visa restrictions on those responsible for -- or complicit in -- promoting instability in Burundi through violence.
"We strongly urge all parties to recommit themselves to upholding the Arusha Agreement and its power-sharing arrangement, the cornerstone of peace and security over the past decade in Burundi."
But no one in the UN Security Council, where France holds the pen on Burundi, even asked for a meeting or briefing in the days before the election.
On the night of July 20, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon issued this statement:
"The Secretary-General takes note of the indefinite suspension of the inter-Burundian dialogue that started on 14 July 2015 under the facilitation of Uganda pursuant to the recommendations of the Summit of the East African Community (EAC) of 6 July 2015. He commends the efforts of President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and of the East African Community (EAC) and calls on all organizations and Burundi’s partners to work together to help Burundians resolve their differences peacefully.
"The Secretary-General notes that the suspension of the dialogue took place without agreement being reached on a range of issues that would have contributed to the creation of a climate conducive to the holding of credible and peaceful elections, as contained in the relevant recommendations of the EAC and the African Union.
"In this worrisome context, and following the decision of the Burundian government to hold the presidential election on 21 July, the Secretary-General calls on the authorities to do all in their power to ensure security and a peaceful atmosphere during the election. He further calls on all parties to refrain from any acts of violence that could compromise the stability of Burundi and the region.
"The Secretary-General reiterates his appeal for the resumption of a frank dialogue among all parties and urges them to avoid undermining the progress achieved in building democracy since the signing of the Arusha Agreements.
"The Secretary-General recalls that the United Nations Electoral Observation Mission, in accordance with its Security Council mandate to observe the electoral process before, during and after the elections, continues to undertake this task and has deployed observers countrywide to that effect. He calls on all parties to facilitate their work and calls, in particular, on the government to ensure their security."
"The Secretary-General notes that the suspension of the dialogue took place without agreement being reached on a range of issues that would have contributed to the creation of a climate conducive to the holding of credible and peaceful elections, as contained in the relevant recommendations of the EAC and the African Union.
"In this worrisome context, and following the decision of the Burundian government to hold the presidential election on 21 July, the Secretary-General calls on the authorities to do all in their power to ensure security and a peaceful atmosphere during the election. He further calls on all parties to refrain from any acts of violence that could compromise the stability of Burundi and the region.
"The Secretary-General reiterates his appeal for the resumption of a frank dialogue among all parties and urges them to avoid undermining the progress achieved in building democracy since the signing of the Arusha Agreements.
"The Secretary-General recalls that the United Nations Electoral Observation Mission, in accordance with its Security Council mandate to observe the electoral process before, during and after the elections, continues to undertake this task and has deployed observers countrywide to that effect. He calls on all parties to facilitate their work and calls, in particular, on the government to ensure their security."
Before 5 pm on July 2 Inner City Press asked the UN Security Council president if any Council member asked for a meeting or statement.
"No one has," UNSC president Gerard von Bohemen of New Zealand told Inner City Press.
At the July 20 noon briefing, Inner City Press asked UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq:
Inner City Press: I wanted to ask you about Burundi. Tomorrow, it’s slated to be the presidential election with the controversial third term, and the Government has stopped attending the "mediation" or facilitation sessions sponsored by Uganda. So, what is the UN… I know that you were deferring to that mediation, but now it's, they say, adjourned, but it seems like the Government's not participating. What does the UN plan to do and what report do you have on violence, including repeated reported shelling today in Bujumbura?
Deputy Spokesman Haq: At this stage, regarding the violence, our Electoral Mission, MENUB, is working to get an assessment of the conditions. It will have an assessment of the election whenever it happens, which it will then share with the Security Council. And we would try to provide details with you of what the electoral mission's assessment is, once we receive that. Regarding the political process, the United Nations wasn't involved in the process that was taking place over the weekend. We are aware of the reports concerning the failure of the Government side to attend the talks. Of course, we are supportive of the efforts by the facilitation under the facilitator that had been designated, President [Yoweri] Museveni, to try to bring the sides together, and we hope that that process can succeed. Meanwhile, we're monitoring the situation on the ground, and we'll issue any further statements including, like I said, the assessment, as circumstances warrant.
Inner City Press: This MENUB mission, there seem to be different understandings or reports from Burundi. How many people are actually out… will actually be out tomorrow observing election places?
Deputy Spokesman: Well, like I said, once the Election Day occurs, we'll get some details from the Mission about its presence and its work. But, at this stage, the basic point is it has a clear Security Council mandate to report back to the Council, and that's what it's going to do.
Deputy Spokesman Haq: At this stage, regarding the violence, our Electoral Mission, MENUB, is working to get an assessment of the conditions. It will have an assessment of the election whenever it happens, which it will then share with the Security Council. And we would try to provide details with you of what the electoral mission's assessment is, once we receive that. Regarding the political process, the United Nations wasn't involved in the process that was taking place over the weekend. We are aware of the reports concerning the failure of the Government side to attend the talks. Of course, we are supportive of the efforts by the facilitation under the facilitator that had been designated, President [Yoweri] Museveni, to try to bring the sides together, and we hope that that process can succeed. Meanwhile, we're monitoring the situation on the ground, and we'll issue any further statements including, like I said, the assessment, as circumstances warrant.
Inner City Press: This MENUB mission, there seem to be different understandings or reports from Burundi. How many people are actually out… will actually be out tomorrow observing election places?
Deputy Spokesman: Well, like I said, once the Election Day occurs, we'll get some details from the Mission about its presence and its work. But, at this stage, the basic point is it has a clear Security Council mandate to report back to the Council, and that's what it's going to do.
Back on July 16, a group of UN experts -- independent, to be sure -- issued a call for action by the UN Security Council, where the "penholder" on Burundi has been notably quiet.
Later on July 16, Inner City Press asked Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric:
Inner City Press: on Burundi, I assume that you've seen this… the group of six UN independent Special Rapporteurs have called for greater action to prevent atrocities in the country. They specifically talk about the role of the Security Council that hasn't met for a week on this and that the elections are now right around the corner. Has the D… has DPA asked to meet with the Security Council, asked to provide any information? What's the UN doing as [Yoweri] Museveni has left? What's…
Spokesman: It's a situation where we're continuing… continuing to watch both on the ground through our presence there. Our colleagues here are monitoring the situation closely. What the Security Council intends to do, that is up to the Security Council to decide.
Inner City Press: But I guess what I'm saying is under this supposed [Human] Rights up Front policy, the idea would be, like, when the DPA thinks that atrocities could take place, they ask to meet with the Security Council or they…
Spokesman: Listen, I think we've… the situation… the very unstable situation in Burundi continues to be of concern to us. We flagged it here from this podium. The Secretary-General and others have been involved in talking to people on the phone. We're continuing to watch it, and if we have more to say…
Inner City Press: I know I'd asked you this before, but when is the… has the Secretary-General sought to speak to President [Pierre] Nkurunziza during any of these many weeks and months?
Spokesman Dujarric: I have no updates on his contacts.
Spokesman: It's a situation where we're continuing… continuing to watch both on the ground through our presence there. Our colleagues here are monitoring the situation closely. What the Security Council intends to do, that is up to the Security Council to decide.
Inner City Press: But I guess what I'm saying is under this supposed [Human] Rights up Front policy, the idea would be, like, when the DPA thinks that atrocities could take place, they ask to meet with the Security Council or they…
Spokesman: Listen, I think we've… the situation… the very unstable situation in Burundi continues to be of concern to us. We flagged it here from this podium. The Secretary-General and others have been involved in talking to people on the phone. We're continuing to watch it, and if we have more to say…
Inner City Press: I know I'd asked you this before, but when is the… has the Secretary-General sought to speak to President [Pierre] Nkurunziza during any of these many weeks and months?
Spokesman Dujarric: I have no updates on his contacts.
The experts among other things said:
“The world is witnessing an escalating pattern of politically motivated violence in Burundi, enabled by the country’s decades-long tradition of impunity. The international community must not simply stand by and wait for mass atrocities to unfold, thereby risking a major conflict of regional proportions before it finally decides to act... We also witness efforts to coerce the judiciary, some of whose highest members have fled the country claiming their lives were at risk. In the meantime, armed militias, with the collaboration of authorities, exercise violence against civilians. In these circumstances, it is not surprising that the results of the 29 June elections have generally not been endorsed.
“The absence of independent media and a climate of repression and fear to exercise civil rights and express opinions, notably by peacefully taking to the streets, have marred the recent elections and will also be defining the forthcoming presidential elections, now scheduled for 21 July. The postponement by six days of the presidential elections does not remedy this blatant deficiency.
“If the government persists in holding presidential elections under the current circumstances – something even the former first Vice-President objected to after also having fled the country – they will in no way confer any legitimacy on the to-be-elected authorities. On the contrary, the elections are highly likely to result in major instability and confrontations in Burundi, with the potential to spread to the region.
“The Security Council has a unique role for peace and security and for preventing conflicts worldwide. This is a crisis that is eminently preventable – everyone can see the risks. What is lacking is action.Given the painful history of Burundi and the region, the long engagement of the United Nations in the country to re-build peace, the Security Council must be all the more alerted to the increasing potential of an escalation of massive violence. Burundians, who live in the world’s third poorest country must be spared another cycle of violence, with the misery and destruction that violence always leave on its wake. They look to the Security Council to live up to its unique role in the prevention of mass atrocities.”
They noted, as Inner City Press has, that it was a full week ago, on July 9, that “the situation on Burundi was most recently discussed by the Security Council.” The experts included the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion of truth, justice, reparation and guarantees of non-recurrence, Pablo de Greiff; Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Christof Heyns; Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, Gabriela Knaul; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders; Michel Forst; Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of freedom of opinion and expression, David Kaye; Special Rapporteur on the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and of association, Maina Kiai; and the Chairperson of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, Seong-Phil Hong.
Regarding the Yoweri Museveni "mediation," which by silence the UN Security Council is implicitly endorsing, Inner City Press on July 15 asked Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric:
Inner City Presss: on Burundi, President [Yoweri] Museveni has left the country, his proposal was not accepted. He's left his defence minister there. One, did the UN stand behind those proposals? Did they have any idea what proposals he was going to make? Are they now working with the defence minister? It's okay. I have another one on this, but it's up to you.
Spokesman Dujarric: As I said, the UN supported the mediation process put forward by the East Africa Community, which is being led by Museveni. I don't have any more details from what is actually…
Inner City Press: How did the UN support it?
Spokesman: We're supporting… we're supportive of the facilitation effort.
Inner City Press: There are also reports there that the authorities are declining to give death certificates to people killed by either police or militia. And I wanted to know… you'd said that the human rights mechanism of the UN that's there is there… is recording and routinely reports. So where are the reports?
Spokesman: I will check when they're next scheduled to report.
In the hours the followed, again nothing.
Spokesman Dujarric: As I said, the UN supported the mediation process put forward by the East Africa Community, which is being led by Museveni. I don't have any more details from what is actually…
Inner City Press: How did the UN support it?
Spokesman: We're supporting… we're supportive of the facilitation effort.
Inner City Press: There are also reports there that the authorities are declining to give death certificates to people killed by either police or militia. And I wanted to know… you'd said that the human rights mechanism of the UN that's there is there… is recording and routinely reports. So where are the reports?
Spokesman: I will check when they're next scheduled to report.
In the hours the followed, again nothing.
On July 14, Inner City Press asked Ban's spokesman Dujarric:
Inner City Press: On Burundi, now President [Yoweri] Museveni is in Bujumbura. They say he's holding these talks in the Hotel Bel Air residence. Is Mr. [Abdoulaye] Bathily or any UN representative taking part, and do you have anything on a possible FDLR presence on the border?
Spokesman: I don't believe Mr. Bathily is there. I know the Secretary-General and President Museveni spoke briefly yesterday, if I'm not mistaken. They are scheduled to speak before the day is over. I have nothing on the Burundi border.
Spokesman: I don't believe Mr. Bathily is there. I know the Secretary-General and President Museveni spoke briefly yesterday, if I'm not mistaken. They are scheduled to speak before the day is over. I have nothing on the Burundi border.
Moments later Inner City Press asked the UN's envoy to the DR Congo Martin Kobler about the FDLR, both in DRC and as regards Burundi.Video here. First, the Security Council's president for July Gerard von Bohemen indicated that the only discussion of Burundi on July 14 was as a source of refugees to DRC, which Kobler said the DRC could handle.
In the Security Council chamber, Kobler had said, "I have been monitoring the situation in Burundi very closely, as the country has descended into violence over the last two months. Today, over 140,000 people have fled into neighboring countries, including 12,800 to the DRC. I highlight these events to remind us again of the importance of respecting the constitution, and of creating the necessary political space for a national consensus around elections."
Inner City Press asked Kobler if by this he meant that a third term for Pierre Nkurunziza would violate the constitution of Burundi, or Arusha Agreements. But Kobler didn't answer this. (Reuters cut in, and didn't report a word of what Kobler said about Burundi).
On July 13, Inner City Press asked Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric:
Inner City Press: On Burundi, you said that the UN human rights team there is recording... when are they going to report that? There are these pictures of people described as rebels being arrested by the Government that many people are saying are just farmers who happened to belong to opposition parties. There's also pictures of corpses. When is the UN actually going to report on what it's witnessed in the last day?
Spokesman Dujarric: I'll check with them, but our human rights colleagues tend to report on a regular basis.
Spokesman Dujarric: I'll check with them, but our human rights colleagues tend to report on a regular basis.
So when will that be? Inner City Press on July 13 also asked Dujarric:
Inner City Press: MONUSCO [United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo], ist said there are forces on the border now with Burundi gathered. So I'm asking you this now, because there's some concern coming from both directions, interventions. Is it anything to your knowledge that MONUSCO, DRC or DPA is aware of?
Spokesman: Let me check. Thank you, all. Have great day.
To this has the UN been reduced.Spokesman: Let me check. Thank you, all. Have great day.
From the July 10 transcript:
Inner City Press: I wanted to ask you in Burundi, they're now, you know, in the last hours, there's reports of heavy gunfire on border with Rwanda. There's been grenade attacks in the capital, and some are saying that people seeking to flee are not being allowed to by the ruling party's militia. So what's the status of the UN both observing these things? Does the UN acknowledge that things have actually gotten heated up since even yesterday's Security Council meeting?
Spokesman: No, clearly. I think we very much strongly condemn any type of violent action, any action that is meant to destabilize the already tense and fragile situation in Burundi. We've taken note, as you mentioned, very recently there have been clashes, reported clashes between Burundi's national defence forces and unidentified armed groups in the country's north on the Rwandan border, and we're following the situation closely. And we're trying to verify the authenticity of these reports.
Inner City Press: Given that… I mean it seems like there's no real public accounting or reporting about the Museveni facilitation and there obviously… there's some issues in Uganda at present, so maybe these occupied by those. But what's the UN doing in terms of…
Spokesman: I think we're there to support this facilitation, which is organized by the East African Community under the blessing of the African Union. So you should also address your questions to them.
Spokesman: No, clearly. I think we very much strongly condemn any type of violent action, any action that is meant to destabilize the already tense and fragile situation in Burundi. We've taken note, as you mentioned, very recently there have been clashes, reported clashes between Burundi's national defence forces and unidentified armed groups in the country's north on the Rwandan border, and we're following the situation closely. And we're trying to verify the authenticity of these reports.
Inner City Press: Given that… I mean it seems like there's no real public accounting or reporting about the Museveni facilitation and there obviously… there's some issues in Uganda at present, so maybe these occupied by those. But what's the UN doing in terms of…
Spokesman: I think we're there to support this facilitation, which is organized by the East African Community under the blessing of the African Union. So you should also address your questions to them.
On July 9, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights delivered the speech below to the UN Security Council, click here for that, and here for Burundi's Ambassador's speech.
After the Security Council's last meeting of July 9, about Syria, Inner City Press asked the Council's president for July, Gerard van Bohemen of New Zealand, if the idea of postponing Burundi's election for a mere week to July 22 was discussed in closed door consultations. He replied that Constitutional issues were discussed but no decision or conclusion reached. Video here.
Earlier in the day at the UN noon briefing on July 9, Inner City Press asked UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon's spokesman Stephane Dujarric for the UN's or Ban's position on a delay of a mere week, to July 22, transcript here:
Inner City Press: in Tayé Brook Zerihoun’s briefing to the Council about Burundi, he said that there's been no formal forum for dialogue since 26 June, and then the permanent representative of Burundi said that there is some discussion of moving back the election a week to 21-22 July, he said, consistent with the Constitution. So I wanted to know, is Mr. [Abdoulaye] Bathily part of these discussions? And what does the UN think? Does the UN think that a one-week extension is… addresses the issues that were raised by…
Spokesman Dujarric: I think the issues of the political climate and to create a political climate is conducive to elections in Burundi will be discussed through the facilitation mechanism, which will be led by Mr. [Yoweri] Museveni and supported by the UN.
Inner City Press: But since he's saying… as of today, he said there is no mechanism, so it's going to begin between now and the 15th or now and…
Spokesman Dujarric: Again, this will be led by President Museveni, so I would urge you to ask questions in that direction.
Spokesman Dujarric: I think the issues of the political climate and to create a political climate is conducive to elections in Burundi will be discussed through the facilitation mechanism, which will be led by Mr. [Yoweri] Museveni and supported by the UN.
Inner City Press: But since he's saying… as of today, he said there is no mechanism, so it's going to begin between now and the 15th or now and…
Spokesman Dujarric: Again, this will be led by President Museveni, so I would urge you to ask questions in that direction.
(Before the Security Council meeting started, the questions or chatter outside was unrelated to Burundi.)
On July 8, Inner City Press asked Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric:
Inner City Press: In the Srebrenica debate just now, Prince Zeid said the UN must be resolute. Had this been in the case in Sri Lanka in 2009 or now in Sudan, Syria, Central African Republic or even Burundi and Myanmar, the consequences would have been different. I have questions about a number of those countries, but I wanted to ask you, on Burundi, where he says "even Burundi", I wanted to know, one, does the UN have any response now that the ruling party has announced its whopping win on 29 June? And, two, people are coming forward with names of victims and names of alleged killers, including victim Serge Bizimana, and they say police officer [UN says inaudible, ICP said JM Havugayezu] killed him. They have a picture of him.. I'm just wondering: What is the UN doing on the ground to… either to look into these cases after the fact or prevent them going forward?
Spokesman Dujarric: Well, I think on… on the political situation, as I said yesterday, we fully support the work of the facilitation, which will now be led by Mr. [Yoweri] Museveni. And obviously, the Secretary-General fully supports the work of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, his team, and the human rights situation in Burundi is of concern, as we've often stated.
Inner City Press: But, just one follow-up. If… if as the report that was read out from this podium last week was that the elections held on 29 June didn't have the conditions of fairness or freedom and… so what's your response to the results that are announced? Does the UN recognize those results?
Spokesman Dujarric: It's not up to the UN to recognize or not recognize the results. We did not participate in the election, as I understand it. It is clear that all Burundian parties need to support the facilitation to create the right political atmosphere.
Inner City Press: What was MENUB (United Nations Electoral Mission in Burundi] doing if not participating and observing? I mean, there's this…
Spokesman Dujarric: I understand. I do not believe they were involved in these particular elections.
Spokesman Dujarric: Well, I think on… on the political situation, as I said yesterday, we fully support the work of the facilitation, which will now be led by Mr. [Yoweri] Museveni. And obviously, the Secretary-General fully supports the work of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, his team, and the human rights situation in Burundi is of concern, as we've often stated.
Inner City Press: But, just one follow-up. If… if as the report that was read out from this podium last week was that the elections held on 29 June didn't have the conditions of fairness or freedom and… so what's your response to the results that are announced? Does the UN recognize those results?
Spokesman Dujarric: It's not up to the UN to recognize or not recognize the results. We did not participate in the election, as I understand it. It is clear that all Burundian parties need to support the facilitation to create the right political atmosphere.
Inner City Press: What was MENUB (United Nations Electoral Mission in Burundi] doing if not participating and observing? I mean, there's this…
Spokesman Dujarric: I understand. I do not believe they were involved in these particular elections.
Again we ask: so MENUB was NOT observing the June 29 elections, just as UNDP's Helen Clark tweeted then deleted? This is a new low for the UN. On July 9, Zeid and Tayé-Brook Zerihoun are set to brief the Security Council. Watch this site.
On July 7, Inner City Press asked Ban's spokesman Stephane Dujarric:
Inner City Press: I wanted to ask you on Burundi, I know that Mr. [Abdoulaye] Bathily did go to the EAC (East African Community) meeting. They basically named Yoweri Museveni as the facilitator between the Government and the opposition in Burundi and asked the Government to delay the presidential election at least until the end of July. I wanted to know, one, does the UN play any role in this Museveni mediation? Two, does the UN, DPA (Department of Political Affairs) or Mr. Bathily, do they support this call to postpone the election?
Spokesman Dujarric: Sure. I think… yes, Mr. Bathily took part in the EAC meeting. He briefed on his role as part of the international facilitation. We've taken note of what has come out of the summit, of the East African Summit. And we very much welcome the appointment of Ugandan President Museveni as the facilitator of the dialogue in Burundi. Obviously, we will see how President Museveni intends to take this new format forward. But what is clear is that the UN will support this facilitation effort in a way that helps create the right atmosphere for elections in Burundi.
Inner City Press: Given that it's now the 7th and the election is… and President Nkurunziza is campaigning and the date is set for the 15th, can you imagine this facilitation somehow creating the conditions that… that the UN… the MENUB (United Nations Electoral Mission in Burundi) report said should be required by the 15th?
Spokesman Dujarric: You know, obviously, I think it's… the situation in Burundi has been challenging, to say the least. We have a new facilitation format, I think, led by a regional President. We'll support that, and, obviously, it's up to Mr. Museveni to take it forward. But the UN very much will support his action. We hope they do get under way as quickly as possible.
Inner City Press: And last, has the Secretary-General made any call since your last listing, where he spoke to President [Jakaya] Kikwete? Does he intend to speak with President Museveni or anyone else on this topic?
Spokesman: The Secretary-General and his aides remain in contact with regional leaders. Obviously, the Secretary-General will be out of pocket, basically for the next 24 hours. But as soon as we can update you the phone list, we will.
Spokesman Dujarric: Sure. I think… yes, Mr. Bathily took part in the EAC meeting. He briefed on his role as part of the international facilitation. We've taken note of what has come out of the summit, of the East African Summit. And we very much welcome the appointment of Ugandan President Museveni as the facilitator of the dialogue in Burundi. Obviously, we will see how President Museveni intends to take this new format forward. But what is clear is that the UN will support this facilitation effort in a way that helps create the right atmosphere for elections in Burundi.
Inner City Press: Given that it's now the 7th and the election is… and President Nkurunziza is campaigning and the date is set for the 15th, can you imagine this facilitation somehow creating the conditions that… that the UN… the MENUB (United Nations Electoral Mission in Burundi) report said should be required by the 15th?
Spokesman Dujarric: You know, obviously, I think it's… the situation in Burundi has been challenging, to say the least. We have a new facilitation format, I think, led by a regional President. We'll support that, and, obviously, it's up to Mr. Museveni to take it forward. But the UN very much will support his action. We hope they do get under way as quickly as possible.
Inner City Press: And last, has the Secretary-General made any call since your last listing, where he spoke to President [Jakaya] Kikwete? Does he intend to speak with President Museveni or anyone else on this topic?
Spokesman: The Secretary-General and his aides remain in contact with regional leaders. Obviously, the Secretary-General will be out of pocket, basically for the next 24 hours. But as soon as we can update you the phone list, we will.
In the eight hours after, no updates were given. The "out of pocket" Ban Ki-moon managed to issue a statement, about Boko Haram. Inner City Press asked the president of the Security Council for July, Gerard van Bohemen, is last week's draft press statement is dead. He replied it was decided that the previous Presidential Statement was strong. But that was before the June 29 election, no? The Security Council is scheduled to meet about Burundi again on July 9; we'll be there.
The day before on July 6, Inner City Press asked Ban's deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq about it. (This was before the East African Community urged postponement until July 30 and named Yoweri Museveni as the mediator, and UN DPA did not respond with its position). From the July 6 UN transcript:
Inner City Press: over the weekend or even now a couple of days ago, it seems like the Government in Burundi has said that they reject Mr. [Abdoulaye] Bathily as the mediator, saying he wasn't sufficiently deferential, or they didn't actually kind of register or meet with him. One, I wanted to know what your response is to their critique of what he's done. But, also, what's the next step? Is it the case that he's no longer mediating there? Who's representing the UN at the EAC [East African Community] meeting? And what… what's the Secretary-General's thoughts as we approach 15 July? Thanks.
Deputy Spokesman Haq: Okay. Well, first of all, on the question of these remarks that you saw over the weekend in the media, the Secretary-General expresses his deep appreciation for the work done so far by Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily as a member of the Joint International Facilitation Team. The Joint International Facilitation Team, of which Special Representative Bathily is a member, was established by a Summit of the African Union Peace and Security Council. The conclusions reached by the Facilitation Team were endorsed by all the organizations forming the team. We reiterate our full support for the diplomatic initiatives that Special Representative Bathily has conducted with professionalism and integrity, and in coordination with the other members of the Joint International Facilitation Team. You asked what he's doing right now. Mr. Bathily attended the East African Community, the EAC Summit today in Dar-es-Salaam at the invitation of the EAC Chair, President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania. We will await the report from the EAC summit before considering further actions to facilitate political dialogue among Burundian stakeholders. The UN is committed to helping the Burundian parties create the conditions for peaceful and credible elections. This requires a corresponding commitment from the parties, acting in good faith, to achieve this goal.
Inner City Press: Can you see the election going forward on the 15… given the report that came out last Thursday and the impending presidential election with Mr. [Pierre] Nkurunziza running, can the UN foresee that as being even possibly fair, free and without violence?
Deputy Spokesman Haq: Well, this is ultimately a question that's up to the Burundian parties themselves. You'll have seen what we have been saying in recent days, and we stand by what we've said. And, regarding further steps, of course, again, we'll await a report from the EAC summit before we consider further actions
Deputy Spokesman Haq: Okay. Well, first of all, on the question of these remarks that you saw over the weekend in the media, the Secretary-General expresses his deep appreciation for the work done so far by Special Representative Abdoulaye Bathily as a member of the Joint International Facilitation Team. The Joint International Facilitation Team, of which Special Representative Bathily is a member, was established by a Summit of the African Union Peace and Security Council. The conclusions reached by the Facilitation Team were endorsed by all the organizations forming the team. We reiterate our full support for the diplomatic initiatives that Special Representative Bathily has conducted with professionalism and integrity, and in coordination with the other members of the Joint International Facilitation Team. You asked what he's doing right now. Mr. Bathily attended the East African Community, the EAC Summit today in Dar-es-Salaam at the invitation of the EAC Chair, President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania. We will await the report from the EAC summit before considering further actions to facilitate political dialogue among Burundian stakeholders. The UN is committed to helping the Burundian parties create the conditions for peaceful and credible elections. This requires a corresponding commitment from the parties, acting in good faith, to achieve this goal.
Inner City Press: Can you see the election going forward on the 15… given the report that came out last Thursday and the impending presidential election with Mr. [Pierre] Nkurunziza running, can the UN foresee that as being even possibly fair, free and without violence?
Deputy Spokesman Haq: Well, this is ultimately a question that's up to the Burundian parties themselves. You'll have seen what we have been saying in recent days, and we stand by what we've said. And, regarding further steps, of course, again, we'll await a report from the EAC summit before we consider further actions
Meanwhile Burundian civil society organizations have said they "condemn the electoral forcing made by President Nkurunziza in as much as it is a dead-end path taken in total disregard of the Arusha Agreement, the Constitution and the relevant decisions taken by the East African Community and the African Union."
Back on July 2 UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq at the noon briefing announced that the UN's observer MENUB mission's report "is available in my Office."
Inner City Press, which has been asking for and about the report for two days, immediately went there. But it was NOT in the Spokesperson's Office. Back in the briefing room, Inner City Press asked why not, and if UN human rights official Ivan Simonovic would make public his Office's findings about killings in Burundi. "It's a closed meeting," Haq replied, of the Security Council proceedings.
Haq in response to Inner City Press' question read out a short summary of the MENUB report. Reuters reported Haq's if-asked AS the UN's findings, and later another global media couched the UN's position on Burundi as something that spokesperson Haq "told Reuters." This is the UN, & Reuters.
Later the MENUB report did become available, in hard copy. Inner City Press tweeted a photo and the conclusion that on June 29 "the environment was not conducive to free, credible and inclusive elections.”
But as Inner City Press asked Haq, doesn't that apply to the presidential election still set for July 15? Inner City Press asked if Ban thinks it should be postponed; there was no clear answer. Will the UN be represented at the East African Community meeting on July 6 or 7? UNclear. Here's more of the MENUB report:
MENUB “observed media freedom restrictions, violations of human rights and other fundamental freedoms;" it was in “50 municipalities out of 119... polling procedures were not respected in all cases.”
Inner City Press continues to ask, if MENUB and Burundi were so important to the UN, why was the mission's chair Cassam Uteem not replaced upon departure?
Inner City Press asked Haq who in the UN system is monitoring or even simply counting the people killed in Cibitoke and elsewhere.
Haq mentioned the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, whose Prince Zeid is slated to brief the Security Council next week. That Office is bound up in a scandal about not reporting sexual abuse of children in the Central African Republic. And here?
As Inner City Press reported on June 30, a coalition of civil society groups has written to the African Union urging sanctions on Nkurunziza. Inner City Press has obtained the letter and put it online here.
