New York, 20 August 2015 - The Secretary-General has taken note of the inauguration today in Bujumbura of Pierre Nkurunziza for his third term as President of Burundi.

He reiterates his call for all Burundian stakeholders to undertake an inclusive and transparent political dialogue under the leadership of the East African Community (EAC) Facilitator, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda.  He reiterates the readiness of the United Nations to support such a dialogue.  The creation of a government of national unity, as called for in the 6 July EAC summit communique, needs to derive from such a genuine and open dialogue, which is necessary to overcome existing deep political divisions.

The Secretary-General notes President Nkurunziza’s stated intention to serve as President of all Burundians.  He urges the President to pursue a path of inclusivity and reconciliation in this spirit.