Bujumbura, Burundi--Protesters opposed to Burundian President Pierre Nkurunziza called for him to step down Tuesday, defying warnings to end weeks of demonstrations as security forces fired shots to restore order after a failed coup.
"We cannot stop the protests, because President Nkurunziza has not withdrawn his candidacy," said Bernard, a 34-year old unemployed man, angry at the president's bid for a third term in power.
But he also admitted that the "numbers of protesters were diminishing because people fear the bullets... we've started to see soldiers firing to intimidate the population."
Hundreds gathered in groups in several districts of the capital Bujumbura chanting "No to violence!" although others gathered up piles of stones, apparently in case of attack by security forces. Others set up barricades in the streets.
But groups scattered as troops fired warning shots, gathering again elsewhere to resume protest chants.
At least 20 people died in weeks of street battles with security forces before the demonstrations ended when generals launched a failed coup attempt last week, with protests then resuming Monday.
Nkurunziza has been accused by rights groups of launching a campaign of repression against opponents and trying to silence independent media since coup leaders admitted defeat on Friday after fierce fighting with loyalist troops.
But the presidency dismissed such claims Tuesday, saying it would never carry out "revenge" raids and promising fair trials for those arrested.
"Those involved in the shameful attempt to overthrow legitimate institutions will be arrested and prosecuted by the courts, and only by them -- and it will be up to them to fix the punishment, as prescribed by law," a statement read.
Almost a week on since the coup attempt led by a top general -- which saw soldiers battling each other on the streets -- troops have largely replaced the police to stem the protests.
Bujumbura mayor Juma Saidi warned in broadcasts at the weekend that "demonstrators will be considered as part of the coup, and security forces have been ordered to treat them as such."
AFP
