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Meanwhile, eight predominantly Tutsi parties attending the talks have issued a statement expressing concern over comments by Mandela regarding Tutsi monopoly of power in Burundi. "These conclusions tend to imply that the basis of the Burundi conflict is the political, economic and military domination of the minority Tutsi group over the majority Hutu one," the
statement said. "This theory could generate tension and the risk of confrontation in the country, which might jeopardise the chances of success for the peace process." The parties warned they would not accept the facilitation team "if the plan for a compromise is founded on this theory". The statement was signed by AV-Intwari, PRP, RADDES, UPRONA, ANADDE, PSP, PIT and INKINZO. Diplomatic sources close to the facilitator
told IRIN they did not believe Mandela's comments were made in a "spirit of confrontation".
The small Tutsi-dominated RADDES party was finally allowed to take part in the peace talks after being denied entry for two days. "We are happy to be allowed in, but this delay shows that some facilitators are manipulating the negotiations," RADDES leader Joseph Nzeyimana told IRIN on Thursday.
This article was produced by IRIN News while it was part of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Please send queries on copyright or liability to the UN. For more information: https://shop.un.org/rights-permissions