Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bujumbura (Fides Service)-“I would not speak of a crisis in the peace process or in government. This is simply strong pressure to urge respect for the conditions of the peace agreement” a local Church source in Bujumbura, capital of Burundi, told Fides with regard to a decision taken by the former rebel group FDD (Forces for Defence of Democracy) to withdraw from the national unity government. In October 2003 in Pretoria (South Africa) the FDD signed an agreement with Burundi’s Domitien Ndayizeye for an immediate cessation of all hostilities between the FDD forces and the regular army. The agreement stipulated that rebels would have vice-presidency and four ministries, as well as 40% of army officer posts and 35% of police officer posts. Yesterday 3 May, the FDD accused the government of failing to keep its promise to appoint some of its members to administrative responsibilities.
“Today 4 May the government has announced it will respect the conditions of the agreement, so I think there is no reason for concern” the source told Fides. “Nevertheless the international community must be on the alert to see that the peace process in Burundi proceeds regularly.
With great difficulty Burundi is struggling its way out of 11 of civil war in which at least 300,000 were killed. In the second part of April the other rebel group Forces for National Liberation announced they would stop all hostilities and were ready to negotiate with the government. Efforts are being made to bring this last group of rebels to the negotiating table. On Friday 7 May Fides will publish a map of ethnic movements in Burundi. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides righe 26 parole 308)
