EU lifts sanctions against Burundian premier, 2 others

KIGALI, Rwanda

The European Union on Tuesday said it has lifted sanctions on three Burundians, including Prime Minister Gervais Ndirakobuca.

The sanctions were imposed seven years ago amid the deteriorating political situation in Burundi.

In 2015, the EU Council imposed the sanctions, which included travel restrictions and asset freezes, at the height of violence triggered by former President Pierre Nkurunziza's decision to extend his tenure in office.

In a communique, the EU said the decision to lift the sanctions against Ndirakobuca and two others Godefroid Bizimana and Leonard Ngendakumana follows “intensified dialogue with Burundi.”

The EU will continue to support the development efforts and reforms undertaken by Burundi, it added.

Albert Shingiro, Burundi’s foreign minister, in a tweet welcomed the lifting of targeted sanctions against the personalities.

"This measure is the culmination of frank, sincere political dialogue, based on mutual trust and the shared desire to warm the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the EU," he said.

Ndirakobuca was appointed prime minister last month.

He was Nkurunziza's chief adviser for police affairs during the violence in 2015.

After the 2020 elections in Burundi, the US also lifted sanctions on the country's military and security officials.

In February 2021, the Burundian government and the European Union resumed political dialogue aimed to normalize their relations following the election of President Evariste Ndayishimiye.

Ndayishimiye, 54, assumed office in June 2020 after his predecessor Nkurunziza died of what the Burundian authorities said was heart failure.