Hello

Your subscription is almost coming to an end. Don’t miss out on the great content on Nation.Africa

Ready to continue your informative journey with us?

Hello

Your premium access has ended, but the best of Nation.Africa is still within reach. Renew now to unlock exclusive stories and in-depth features.

Reclaim your full access. Click below to renew.

Subscribe for a month to get full access

Burundi general announces coup against Nkurunziza

Demonstrators take part in a protest in Bujumbura on May 13, 2015. A top Burundian general announced today the overthrow of President Pierre Nkurunziza, following weeks of violent protests against the president's bid to stand for a third term. AFP PHOTO / LANDRY NSHIMIYE

By  AFP

A top Burundian general on Wednesday announced the overthrow of President Pierre Nkurunziza, following weeks of violent protests against the president's bid to stand for a third term.

"President Pierre Nkurunziza is removed from office, the government is dissolved," General Godefroid Niyombare said in a radio broadcast.

The broadcast by Niyombare — a highly respected figure who was sacked from his position as the central African nation's powerful chief of intelligence in February — came hours after Nkurunziza left the country for neighbouring Tanzania.

Also Read

He was travelling to attend talks with regional leaders on ending his country's crisis.

"All people are asked to respect the lives and property of others," Mr Niyombare added.