UNITED NATIONS (Sputnik) — Parliamentary elections were initially scheduled in the country for June 5, but were postponed amid mass protests triggered by current President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for a third term in office, with the law requiring him to step down after two terms.
"The Special Envoy encourages the Burundian parties to continue their dialogue with a view to create conditions conducive to holding free, fair, inclusive and peaceful elections… He reiterates his appeal to all parties to exercise restraint and to refrain from any acts likely to increase tension and violence," the UN statement said on Wednesday.
The Special Envoy of the Secretary General for the Great Lakes Region, Said Djinnit, noted the progress made in terms of guarantees for the holding of "free, transparent, inclusive and peaceful" elections, and the protection of constitutional rights and freedoms.
The United Nations said Djinnit remained committed to continuing work toward preserving peace, democracy and stability in Burundi.
In late May, a regional bloc, the East African Community, asked the Burundian government to postpone parliamentary and presidential elections for at least 45 days so that there was enough time to ensure that the vote is held in a peaceful environment.
