Burundi
5 July 2006
The summit of the Great Lakes Region, which was held in Dar es Salaam on 18
June 2006 at the instance of the countries of the regional initiative,
instructed the negotiators of the government of Burundi, led by the Minister
for Home Affairs, Brigadier-General Evariste Ndayishimiye and the
Palipehutu-FNL, led by its Chairperson, Mr Agathon Rwasa, to negotiate within
14 days a comprehensive ceasefire.
The instruction followed the signing of the Peace Accord between the
Burundian government and the rebel group, which among other things brought to
an end the hostilities between the two groups.
The peace accord is comprised of a set of principles covering the social,
economic and political life of the Burundi as well as the defence and security
forces of that country.
The time line of two weeks lapsed last Saturday, but the ceasefire document
was not finalised following a stalemate in the process.
It became evident in discussions with all concerned yesterday and today that
there needs to be further consultation on the matter. The ceasefire
negotiations in the circumstances have been adjourned for a week to facilitate
the necessary consultations.
The negotiations therefore will resume on Thursday, 13 July 2006.
The final phase of the search for lasting peace in Burundi represented by
the ceasefire negotiations will be expedited to start the process of the
repatriation of all exiles who left Burundi as a consequence of the conflict in
that country including the Palipehutu-FNL members and the refugees who are
scattered around the globe.
The government of Burundi and the Palipehutu-FNL have committed themselves
to the negotiations.
Contact:
Dineo Khama
Cell: 074 431 6142
E-mail: political@sahc-tz.com
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
5 July 2006
Source: SAPA
