Negotiation for a Ceasefire leading towards lasting Peace in Burundi

The summit of the Great Lakes Region, which was held in Dar es Salaam on 18 June 2006 at the instance of the countries of the regional initiative, instructed the negotiators of the government of Burundi, led by the Minister for Home Affairs, Brigadier-General Evariste Ndayishimiye and the Palipehutu-FNL, led by its Chairperson, Mr Agathon Rwasa, to negotiate within 14 days a comprehensive ceasefire.

The instruction followed the signing of the Peace Accord between the Burundian government and the rebel group, which among other things brought to an end the hostilities between the two groups.

The peace accord is comprised of a set of principles covering the social, economic and political life of the Burundi as well as the defence and security forces of that country.

The time line of two weeks lapsed last Saturday, but the ceasefire document was not finalised following a stalemate in the process.

It became evident in discussions with all concerned yesterday and today that there needs to be further consultation on the matter. The ceasefire negotiations in the circumstances have been adjourned for a week to facilitate the necessary consultations.

The negotiations therefore will resume on Thursday, 13 July 2006.

The final phase of the search for lasting peace in Burundi represented by the ceasefire negotiations will be expedited to start the process of the repatriation of all exiles who left Burundi as a consequence of the conflict in that country including the Palipehutu-FNL members and the refugees who are scattered around the globe.

The government of Burundi and the Palipehutu-FNL have committed themselves to the negotiations.

Issued in Dar Es Salaam by:
South African Facilitation of
The Burundi Peace Process

Contact:
Dineo Khama
Cell: 074 431 6142
E-mail: political@sahc-tz.com

Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
5 July 2006