The African Nation Of Burundi Is Gripped By Political Violence

The Guardian: Burundi: thousands flee to Rwanda as protests grip capital before June poll

More than 22,000 Burundians flee to Rwanda in a month amid violence provoked by President Pierre Nkurunziza’s bid for third term as president

Thousands of people have crossed from Burundi into neighbouring Rwanda over the past week, fleeing intimidation by youth militia who are reportedly targeting rural areas as protests grip the capital, Bujumbura, over the president’s decision to stand for a third term in June’s presidential elections.

According to reports, the authorities have cut mobile access to social media services such as WhatsApp and Facebook. Private radio stations have been shut down and youth militia are marking the homes of those opposed to the president. With protests in the capital ongoing, many fear more violence in a country that endured vicious ethnic violence during its 12-year civil war.

More News On Burundi's Growing Political Violence

Burundi on Edge Over Leader’s Election Bid as Thousands Flee -- Bloomberg
Burundi still tense with street protests as US sends senior diplomat -- AP
Burundi Shuts Down National University, Sends Students Home -- VOA
Burundi sends college students home amid unrest -- AP
Burundi president told U.S. diplomat protests against him illegal - spokesman -- Swiss Info
Burundi court to examine president’s third-term bid -- Mail & Guardian
United States says Burundi risks boiling over if political opposition stifled -- Reuters
Analysis - Burundi's patchwork army faces test to keep the peace -- Reuters
What explains Burundi’s protests? -- Cara E. Jones and Stephanie Schwartz, Washington Post
Burundi on the Brink -- New York Times