Politics

Burundi: UK criticizes constitutional referendum and calls for government engagement in regional mediation

On the occasion of the celebration of the Queen’s Birthday Party in Burundi this June 6th, 2018, Jo Lomas, UK non resident Ambassador to Burundi has said the UK has criticized the recently held constitutional referendum saying it was not in the best interests of peace and stability in the region.

Jo Lomas, UK Ambassador to Burundi: “We will continue to be a friend and partner of Burundi in efforts to achieve peace, democracy and reconciliation.”

Jo Lomas, UK Ambassador to Burundi: “We will continue to be a
friend and partner of Burundi in efforts to achieve peace, democracy and
reconciliation.”

“We will continue to encourage the Government of Burundi to engage in regional mediation efforts which we believe are in the long term interests of the stability and security of Burundi and the freedom of its people,” said Ambassador Lomas adding that UK will continue to be a friend and partner of Burundi in efforts to achieve peace, democracy and reconciliation.

For Jean de Dieu Ndikumana, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign affairs who represented Burundi Government in the celebration of the Queen’s Birthday Party, the recent constitutional referendum is a response to Burundians’ aspirations through inclusive dialogue and a response to different recommendations from diverse stakeholders including politicians and the civil society.”

“Burundi government requests the international community in general and the UK in particular to support the people of Burundi. Our wish is to have with our partners, safe and win-win relations that are respectful towards our identity and institutions,” said Mr Ndikumana.

Parliamentarians, members of the international organizations and civil society among others, have attended the birthday party of Queen Elizabeth II who turned 92 this year and has reigned over the UK for 65 years.

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