The United Nations High Commissioner for
Human Rights, Sergio Vieira de Mello, wrapped up a three-day trip to Burundi
with a strong appeal to all parties to press ahead with the regional peace
process and to exert every effort to protect civilians and end the recruitment
of child soldiers.
Along with the protection of civilians
and children in armed conflict, Mr. Vieira de Mello stressed the importance
of strengthening Burundi's capacity to deal with human rights issues and
reforming the judiciary.
His meetings yesterday with President Pierre Buyoya, Vice-President Domitien Nadyizeye and other senior officials included a strong appeal for broad commitment to the Arusha agreement as well as discussions about how his Office could support the overall peace process in Burundi.
The High Commissioner also called for end to the culture of impunity, emphasizing that trust could be restored through holding accountable those responsible for gross human rights violations, such as the massacre that took place in Itaba, and settling the issue of prisoners and detainees