Document
The World Council of Churches (WCC) and the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC) express their profound concern over reports of widespread and violent demonstrations in the nation of Burundi. The fellowship of churches is alarmed by the recent violent clashes in relation to forthcoming presidential elections. These protests are by far the most intense that Burundi has experienced since 2005 and the end of the civil war. We mourn those who have lost their lives during these troubled times, and together we call for peaceful dialogue.
The current atmosphere of division places in jeopardy the peace agreement which has aimed at bringing an end to conflict. While reasonable people may differ on the specifics of the road ahead, it is essential that violence cease and dialogue be re-established, so that justice may prevail.
Beyond the issues at play in the current confrontation, it is not only the peace and security of Burundians which are at stake but also the stability of the Great Lakes region.
The World Council of Churches and the All Africa Conference of Churches invite the people of our member churches to pray for all those in Burundi, for justice, and for peace. We call on churches and all religious leaders in Burundi to renew their commitment to peace, and actively to discourage any form of violence. We call on the leaders of all faiths to support a nationwide dialogue based on mutual respect among all parties.
