Shot
Mbonimpa is shot as he makes his way home from work in the capital, by a gunman on a motorbike. Family member:
His condition is stable, and has even slightly improved.
United Nations Secretary-General Ban condemns ‘the assassination attempt’ and calls for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.
This incident… is part of a growing pattern of politically-motivated violence in Burundi that must be broken before it escalates beyond control.
Several diplomats, including from the United States and France, as well as African Union officials, attend Mbonimpa’s hospital bedside during the night until the arrival of the police.
AU Commission chief Dlamini-Zuma calls on the government to investigate the ‘attempted murder’ as well as ‘all other such killings’, and wishes Mbonimpa ‘a speedy recovery’, while Human Rights Watch Africa chief Bekele calls on the government to ensure his safety.
We are shocked at this blatant attack on one of Burundi’s most prominent and respected activists. The Burundian authorities should take immediate steps to secure Mbonimpa’s safety and protection.
Amnesty International condemns the ‘brazen attack’ it says is part of ‘a disturbing escalation’ of violence.