Condolence Message to the Government and People of Burundi Following the Demise of H.E. Pierre Nkurunziza, President of the Republic of Burundi

East African Community Headquarters, Arusha, Tanzania, 9^th June, 2020: The East African Community has received with utter shock and sadness the news of the untimely and tragic demise of His Excellency Pierre Nkurunziza, President of the Republic of Burundi and Member of the Summit of the EAC Heads of State on 8^th June, 2020.

President Nkurunziza’s contribution to the re-establishment of constitutional order, peace, ethnic tranquility, rights and equality for all since his ascendancy to power in 2005 in Burundi cannot be overemphasized. Equally significant was H.E. Nkurunziza’s unequivocal decision to lead Burundi into the Community in 2007, having figured out that the economic, social and political homogeneity of the region provided vast opportunities for his country’s economic recovery and national reconciliation.

The political impasse in 2015 and the subsequent governance challenges were all overcome through his steady steering of the state which led to the birthing of a new Constitution, peaceful and democratic elections, and the subsequent peaceful transfer of power which all Burundians were looking forward to.

His commitment to security and rights for all irrespective of social, ethnic, religious or political background remains a beacon on which Burundians can build on to further their development objectives. His credentials as a God-fearing leader, his commitment to democracy and penchant for interaction with ordinary Burundians, and promotion of sport as a unifier are some attributes that will forever remain in our memory.

As the nation mourns, our prayers go to the immediate family of H.E. Nkurunziza, the Government and People of Burundi. We call upon the entire nation to maintain patience and peace during this trying time. It is also our hope that the firm foundation laid by the coming into effect of the people-centred homegrown Constitution will strictly be observed through the transition process culminating into a peaceful transfer of power in this iconic year for the nation.

The passing on of H.E. Nkurunziza is a loss not just to the Republic of Burundi but also to the entire Community.

MAY THE ALMIGHTY GOD REST PRESIDENT NKURUNZIZA’S SOUL IN ETERNAL PEACE!

Amb. Libérat Mfumukeko
Secretary General