UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - The United Nations warned on Thursday that Burundi leaders who have manipulated young people to stoke violence could face international prosecution if human rights abuses are committed. Planned constitutional amendments that could allow President Pierre Nkurunziza a third term and change power-sharing arrangements have stirred the worst political crisis in the east African country since a 12-year civil war ended in 2005. In light of Burundis past, we trust that the government of Burundi will thoroughly and promptly address the ongoing political violence and restrictions to human rights, said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moons. Political violence has the potential to spark fear in the population and trigger large-scale violence, he said. The U.N. Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concern at increasing restrictions on civil and political rights in Burundi, following a series of violent acts by the ruling partys youth wing and police. We are stressing that if no action is taken and serious human rights violations occur, those responsible for manipulating the youth affiliated to political parties and instigating violence would be liable for international prosecution, Dujarric told reporters. mobile.reuters/article/idUSBREA3923Q20140410?irpc=932
Posted on: Sun, 13 Apr 2014 12:23:39 +0000
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