Media Statement on the Burundi Talks in Pretoria

A meeting on the Burundi Peace Process was yesterday, 8 May 2005, held in Pretoria.

The meeting was facilitated by Deputy President Jacob Zuma at the Presidential residence, Mahlamba-Ndlopfu, in Pretoria.

The Transitional Government was led by President Domitien Ndayizeye accompanied by Ministers of Justice and Defence, while the Leader of the CNDD-FDD Mr Pierre Nkurunziza was accompanied by his party's Secretary-General.

When Deputy President Zuma was in Uganda last month, he was mandated by the 24th Regional Summit on Burundi to engage with the Transitional Government and the CNDD-FDD, after CNDD-FDD raised operational concerns during the transition period to him in his capacity as Facilitator.

The many issues of concern included among others, certain aspects of the integration of the security forces and the appointment of the Minister of Home Affairs.

The issues were frankly and exhaustively discussed and all major issues were resolved positively. After the meeting, President Mbeki was briefed on the conclusions and decisions taken.

All parties agreed to the urgent implementation of decisions taken at the meeting, as soon as they were in Burundi.

Both the Burundi parties recommitted themselves to move the Peace Process forward promptly and ensure that elections will be held successfully on the scheduled dates.

Enquiries: Zanele Mngadi
Cell: 082 781 9332

Issued by: The Presidency
9 May 2005