United Nations Radio

The United Nations expert on human rights in Burundi has expressed deep concern about the deteriorating situation of freedom of expression and association in the country.

In a statement issued today, Akich Okola notes that in recent weeks journalists, political opponents as well as representatives of civil society and trade unions have become victims of intimidation and harassment while expressing their fundamental rights.

He says that some of them are currently in detention, accused of threatening state security, defamation or slandering the head of State.

The United Nations human rights expert calls on the Government of Burundi to release all those who have been detained for having expressed their opinions.

He stresses that the Government must restore a calm political climate and take all necessary measures to end the harassment and intimidation of journalists and representatives of civil society, trade unions and political parties.

The United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva is scheduled to examine the situation of human rights in Burundi on 2 and 4 December.

United Nations Radio, Diane Bailey

(duration: 1'08")