I have been monitoring reports on all media platforms about the unfortunate turn of events in Burundi for the past two weeks and it seems the situation is deteriorating with each passing day. I think the African Union and the International Community, especially the United Nations should impress on the incumbent President to drop his idea of seeking a third term in office.
The situation has to do with opposition parties protesting against President Pierre Nkurunziza's desire to seek a third term in office and have gone ahead to set a date for elections to be held. As a result of the protests, about twenty people have been confirmed dead with many of the protesters also injured as due to the manner in which the security forces are trying to quell the protests. This region has already had its share of violence and conflicts in recent years. Rwanda and DR Congo have had their own share of conflicts with the former still trying to battle rebels who have hampered the country's stability for a long time.
Due to the crisis in Burundi, hundreds of Burundians are fleeing across the borders to DR Congo, Tanzania and Rwanda. As usual the International Community will fold their arms and wait for the situation to get out of control then they will quickly evacuate their citizens and watch as the Burundians kill each other. I pray and hope it does not get to that level. The President of Burundi must be made to respect the Constitution which prevents him from seeking a third term in office. He must also be blamed for the deaths that occur as a result of the decision he has taken to disrespect the constitution. This situation must be nipped in the bud before it creates a serious humanitarian crisis in the region.
Its high time African leaders are made to know and understand that the countries they rule are not their personal properties. The African Union must be tough on this attitude of some African leaders who do everything possible to stay in power for as long as they want. Africa does not need another conflict such as the one simmering in Burundi. Innocent lives must not be sacrificed due to the selfish ambitions of an individual and his cronies. #AfricanLivesMatter.
