UN chief 'alarmed' by Burundi violence escalation

NEW YORK

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon voiced alarm Friday about the ongoing escalation of violence in Burundi, while condemning public statements aimed at inciting violence and hatred.

Referring to Ban, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said: "He expresses grave concern that in recent weeks, the discovery of the bodies of civilian victims, many apparently summarily executed, has become a regular occurrence in several neighborhoods of Bujumbura."

The African country has been in a cycle of violence since April when the ruling party named President Pierre Nkurunziza – in power since 2005 – its candidate for the presidency.

"The recurring violence and killings in Burundi must stop," Dujarric said. "The Secretary-General underlines the responsibility of the Burundian authorities to protect the civilian population, regardless of political affiliation, and ensure that the widespread impunity for these heinous acts is brought to an immediate end."

At least 13 people were reported killed in clashes since Saturday.

Earlier Friday, the son of prominent Burundian human rights activist Pierre-Claver Mbonimpa was killed following his arrest by police in the capital, Bujumbura.

"[Ban] also condemns public statements that appear aimed at inciting violence or hatred towards different groups in Burundian society," Dujarric said.

"Inflammatory rhetoric is reprehensible and dangerous; it will only serve to aggravate the situation in the country. He calls for accountability for those who have engaged in publicly inciting violence," he added.