President Kenyatta calls for cessation of violence in Burundi

President Uhuru Kenyatta has called for cessation of violence and has urged all Burundian stakeholders in the current conflict to embrace honest and inclusive dialogue as the only way to secure sustainable peace in the country.
According to President Kenyatta, this is the emphatic desire and demand of the Burundian people.

In a statement to newsrooms, President Kenyatta expressed deep concern at the unfolding events in Burundi and condemned the use of violence to pursue political objectives.

“In this regard, Kenya supports the mediation efforts led by His Excellency President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, under the auspices of the East African Community, and looks forward to the speedy commencement of the inter-Burundian dialogue process,” read the statement in part.

President Kenyatta said he believes that the August 2000 Arusha Peace and Reconciliation Agreement for Burundi, of which Kenya is a Guarantor, forms an important basis for the attainment of peace, security, and stability in Burundi. He commends the people of Burundi who have demonstrated a desire for peace and a steady rejection of violence.
“Indeed, we are reminded of the suffering they have experienced in past years of conflict and can see for ourselves their desire to embrace peace. Their dream must not be disappointed,” further read the statement.
“The leaders of Burundi must place the interest of their nation; the aspirations and safety of their people; and the destiny of future generations at the fore of their activities in the weeks and months to come. The guns must be silenced. Peace must prevail,” President Kenyatta added.
On Sunday December 20^th, President Kenyatta sent a special envoy to meet all stakeholders and appeal for calm.

The President’s special envoy, Principal Secretary for Interior, Dr. (Eng.) Karanja Kibicho, delivered a Special Message to His Excellency President Pierre Nkurunziza of Burundi.
He also met political and religious leaders and visited the Burundi countryside.