(MENAFN- Saudi Press Agency) Burundi's leading opposition politician called on President Pierre Nkurunziza to hold talks with rivals and form a national unity government after a disputed election, saying it could help avert a new conflict in the poor African nation, according to Reuters.
Agathon Rwasa, a former rebel leader like Nkurunziza in Burundi's civil war, told Reuters action was needed to prevent generals behind a foiled coup in May taking up arms in a crisis triggered by Nkurunziza's bid for a third term in office.
The opposition has accused Nkurunziza of violating the constitution by seeking another term and boycotted Tuesday's vote, all but handing him victory. The president cited a court ruling saying he could run again.
Provisional results could be announced this week.
'Some have already been waving the threat of armed struggle,' Rwasa, the head of the opposition Amizero y'Abarundi coalition told Reuters in a villa overlooking the capital.
One of the generals behind the May coup attempt told Reuters this month that force was the only option after dialogue and international pressure had failed to stop Nkurunziza running.
Nkurunziza's third-term bid has plunged the nation into its worst crisis since the end of a civil war in 2005, stoking tensions in a region with a history of ethnic conflict.
'For the sake of Burundi, the idea of a government of national unity can be accepted,' Rwasa said.
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