[wanabidii] Press Releases: U.S. Concerns about Reported Extra-Judicial Killings and Detentions in Burundi

You are subscribed to Press Releases for U.S. Department of State. This information has recently been updated, and is now available. Press Releases: U.S. Concerns about Reported Extra-Judicial Killings and Detentions in Burundi 02/05/2015 05:11 PM EST U.S. Concerns about Reported Extra-Judicial Killings and Detentions in Burundi Press Statement Marie Harf Deputy Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson Washington, DC February 5, 2015 The United States is troubled by reports implicating Burundian security forces in the extra-judicial killing of at least two dozen members of a rebel group after they surrendered in Cibitoke Province in early January. The United States calls on the government of Burundi to fully and credibly investigate these allegations, prosecute any crimes that may have been committed, and hold those responsible accountable. The United States is also deeply concerned by the increase in irregular detentions and prosecutions of media workers and members of political parties ahead of elections in May, including the recent detention of journalist Bob Rugurika, and continuing due process flaws in the prosecutions of Frederic Bamvuginyumvira and members of the Movement for Solidarity and Democracy youth. These cases raise troubling questions about freedom of expression and the independence of the Burundian judiciary. We urge the Government of Burundi to respect the rights of these individuals and all its citizens to due process of law and to ensure that the judicial process is not politicized. An independent, professional judiciary is a key component of the Burundian government’s stated commitment to having a free, fair, and credible electoral process during this important election year in Burundi. The Office of Website Management, Bureau of Public Affairs, manages this site as a portal for information from the U.S. State Department. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein. Stay connected with the State Department:       External links found in this content or on Department of State websites that go to other non-Department websites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views or privacy policies contained therein.  Update your subscriptions, modify your password or email address, or stop subscriptions at any time on your Subscriber Preferences Page. You will need to use your email address to log in. If you have questions or problems with the subscription service, please visit subscriberhelp.govdelivery.com. This service is provided to you at no charge by U.S. Department of State. This email was sent to wanabidii@googlegroups.com using GovDelivery, on behalf of: U.S. Department of State · 2201 C Street NW · Washington, DC 20520

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