Burundi's ruling party suggests inclusive talks on 2020 elections

Burundi's ruling party has suggested the preparation of the 2020 elections be discussed in forthcoming inclusive dialogue aimed at ending the country's political crisis.

"The priority of the dialogue should be the preparation of the country's general elections due in 2020," Pascal Nyabenda, chairman of the ruling CNDD-FDD said on Monday evening.

His remarks came on a day that marks one year since President Pierre Nkurunziza was named candidate of the ruling party for last year's election to seek a third term, which triggered protests and violence.

Nyabenda said the dialogue should look at how political parties could "correct mistakes" observed during the 2015 elections.

"Contradicting decisions of citizens during the 2015 elections will not be accepted," said Nyabenda.

Nkurunziza won the election last July after foiling a coup attempt.

Opponents say his re-election violates the constitution that limits presidents to two terms in office.

Over 400 people have been reportedly killed in the unrest including several high-ranking army officials who have been assassinated.

Source: XINHUA