Condemning Assassination of Former Army Official in Burundi, Secretary-General Stresses Need for Inclusive Dialogue to Peacefully Settle Differences

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns the assassination of Colonel Jean Bikomagu, former Army Chief of Staff, by unknown assailants in Bujumbura on 15 August.  He conveys his condolences to the family of the deceased.

The Secretary-General is troubled by the trend of politically motivated violence in Burundi.  He welcomes the Government’s decision to carry out investigations, and arrests and trials of the perpetrators behind the recent killings.

The Secretary-General reiterates his calls to all Burundians to resume an inclusive dialogue without delay to peacefully settle their differences.  He also reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to support the efforts aimed at consolidating peace and stability in Burundi.