Ssekandi attends Burundi independence celebrations

PIC: Vice President, Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi being introduced by Burundi President, Piere Nkurunziza at the country's 54th Independence celebrations

The Vice-President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi on Friday joined other leaders in Bujumbura at Burundi's 54th independence celebrations since the country attained self-rule from its Belgium colonial administrators.

Speaking during cerebrations at Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium in Bujumbura, Ssekandi assured the people of Burundi of Uganda's support in addressing some of their challenges but urged them to respect each other and work together.

Ssekandi said Burundi and Uganda share a lot in common adding that as a member state of the EAC, Burundi bear a direct effect on socio-economic establishment of Uganda and urged the leadership in Burundi to make use of the EAC whenever they fail to agree on issues at home.

The Vice President commended the Government in Burundi for the calm and tranquility that has been restored in Bujumbura and pledged Uganda's commitment to the return of total peace in Burundi to enable people of Burundi settle down and engage in production for the development of the country.

During a function attended among others by Tanziania former President Kikaya Kikwete, Gabon Prime Minister Daniel Ona Ondo and several delegations from various countries, Burundi President, Piere Nkurunziza called upon his countrymen to work together for the sake of peace.

He urged politicians who have fled the country to come back and work together to build the country saying they have all made mistakes but now need to learn from the mistakes to strengthen the democratic aspirations of the people of Burundi.

Burundi was plunged into turmoil following the court ruling allowing President Nkurunziza to extend his tenure in office beyond two terms contrary to Arusha agreement that limited sitting presidents to only two five year terms in office.