Burundi referendum marred by lack of transparency – U.S

The U.S. said the May 17, referendum process in Burundi was marred by lack of transparency, suspension of media outlets, and attempts to pressure voters.

The U.S. Department of State in a statement by Ms Heather Nauert, Department Spokesperson, said numerous cases of harassment and repression of referendum opponents in the months preceding the vote contributed to a climate of fear and intimidation.

The U.S. also alleged absence of independent observers also undermines confidence in the reported result.

The statement read: “We remain concerned that passage of the revised constitution will be interpreted as resetting presidential term limits.

“We recall the ruling party’s commitment under the Pretoria Protocol to respect the principles of the Arusha Agreement, including respect for term limits.

“Other amendments run counter to the power-sharing principles of the Arusha Agreement.

“We condemn the government’s recent decision to suspend Voice of America and BBC broadcasts.

“This decision along with other media restrictions, arbitrary arrests, and harsh sentences for human rights defenders signals continuing limitations on civic and political space in Burundi”.

The U.S. called on the government of Burundi to respect its citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.

The U.S. pledged supports for the Burundian people and hopes for a future in which they enjoy vibrant and sustainable economic growth, security, and fundamental freedoms.

Voters in Burundi on Monday overwhelmingly approved a new constitution, the electoral commission said on Monday, ushering in changes that could let the president stay in power to 2034.

The commission reported that 73 per cent had voted in favour of amendments extending the presidential term from five to seven years and allowing President Pierre Nkurunziza to seek two more terms, beginning in 2020.

Opposition leaders say the changes to the constitution will allow Nkurunziza — whose party gave him the title of Supreme Eternal Guide this year — to be above the law.

Rights groups said campaigning and the vote itself took place in a climate of fear and intimidation. The government had denied the vote would be anything but free and fair.

Burundi ranks 159th out of 180 countries on the World Press Freedom Index compiled by the advocacy group Reporters Without Borders.