Burundi police clash with protesters opposing presidential third term

Burundi police fired tear gas and water cannons at protesters opposed to President Pierre Nkurunziza running for a third term in the upcoming elections, while some protesters responded with stones, in the capital Bujumbura on Friday.

Hundreds of people, including the dissidents of the ruling party, attended a demonstration launched by five opposition groups in the downtown area in the morning, shouting "no third term to Nkurunziza."

Anti-riot police asked them to leave, but were refused. Angry protesters had clashes with the police and some were allegedly arrested.

"This is just the beginning. We will continue demonstrations until President Nkurunziza gives up his plans for a third term," said Chauvineau Mugwengezo, head of an opposition group, alleging "the police beat him during the demonstration."

Burundi's Roman Catholic Church, the opposition parties and some civil organizations have announced their opposition against Nkurunziza's third term, although he has not stated his intentions.

The opponents say the move will violate the Arusha Agreement and Burundi's Constitution, and may bring violence to the East African nation.

The constitution stipulates that a president of Burundi cannot serve the country for more than two terms. Nkurunziza was elected by parliament in 2005 and re-elected by citizens in 2010.

Burundi is this year to hold general elections between May 26 and August 24, with the presidential election to be held on June 26. Endi