Impose sanctions on Burundi to end crisis

It is saddening that bloodletting in Burundi is still going on. According to a reliable source, at least six people succumbed to death this week in Bujumbura as result of the ongoing political violence.

In April, incumbent President Pierre Nkurunziza launched his third term bid. In July, Burundians went to the polls where Nkurunziza won a sham presidential election.

Since April, Burundi has been experiencing protracted public indignation and political imbroglio.

As we speak, more than 200,000 Burundians have fled the country, while hundreds have been brutally and cruelly killed in extra-judicial executions as a result of anti-government protests. Many more have been incarcerated.

Opposition protesters continue to bear the brunt of autocratic and totalitarian leadership. The incumbent’s abrasive and illegitimate political behaviour has relegated the country’s constitution to a dead letter. Worse, the country’s economy is on its knees.

It behooves the African Union, European Union and United Nations to impose trade sanctions on Burundi to end the current crisis.