South African Government Condemns Attack on Civilians in Burundi

The South African government expresses its outrage and condemnation of the callous murder of defenceless and unarmed civilians, including children, by unidentified gunmen in Burundi.

The South African government urges all parties involved in the conflict to act with restraint and adhere to the terms and conditions of Ceasefire Agreements signed on 7th October and 2nd December 2002.

We are optimistic that the challenges facing the county and the region will be discussed at the regional Summit to be attended by Deputy President Jacob Zuma in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania on Sunday, 14th September 2003 and that movement towards democracy will be accelerated.

We again call on all parties to remain committed to the ends of peace, security and stability in order to halt such attacks.

For further information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.
Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
13 September 2003