Rights group concerned by Mandela remarks

The Burundian human rights organisation, Ligue ITEKA, has expressed concern over comments by the peace talks facilitator, Nelson Mandela, during his recent visit to Burundi, regarding the release of political prisoners. “Burundi people were expecting to hear appeasing words from the mediator,” it said in a statement. “The League ITEKA however, has been surprised and seriously shaken by the mediator Mandela’s stand stating that all would-be prisoners for ideological or political party reasons are political prisoners and should be freed for the restoration of peace in Burundi.” “To accept crimes as a means of political claims would legitimise the nature and logic of crimes committed for the last four decades in Burundi and this would perpetuate conflicts,” the statement added. It warned that national reconciliation would not be possible without fair justice establishing responsibility for crimes. The statement urged the mediator to “reassess his position”.