#BURUNDI: Parliament Votes Overwhelmingly To Leave Int'l Criminal Court

[world politics news]

Burundi's parliament has voted overwhelmingly to withdraw from the International Criminal Court, a move no other country has taken despite complaints from Africa that the court disproportionately targets the continent. Only two lawmakers voted in favor of staying under the jurisdiction of the Dutch-based ICC, while 94 voted to leave. Pro-government lawmaker Gabriel Ntisezerana said the court was "a political tool used by powers to remove whoever they want from power on the African continent." It now moves to the upper house for approval.

#BURUNDI: Gov't Expels Belgians As Political Violence Escalates; Church Attacked

[world politics news]

The day after Belgium suggested its "non-essential" citizens should leave Burundi, the Burundian government said ALL of them should leave. Unrest began in April when Pres. Pierre Nkurunziza said he'd seek a third term. Burundi says Belgium, its former colonial power, has links to opposition groups.

Related: Burundian police shoot up a church, and have arrested a minister who has spoken out against violence.

#BURUNDI: Pres. Nkurunziza Wins Third Term After Oppo. Parties Boycott Election

[world politics news]

Pres. Pierre Nkurunziza has won a third term, winning 69% of the vote. Opposition parties boycotted the elections, leaving former general Agathon Rwasa, who took 19% of the vote, as Nkurunziza’s only opponent. Rwasa's called for the formation of a national unity government with several opposition parties to prevent a possible coup attempt.