Burundi vice president flees to Belgium ahead of elections

One of Burundi's vice presidents has fled to Belgium, saying he had been threatened after denouncing President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for a third term in office, an allegation denied by the government.

He said on Thursday that he could no longer support Nkurunziza’s unconstitutional attempt for a third term, adding that Nkurunziza’s actions have plunged the country into a deep crisis.

Report from Bujumbura said before Rufyikiri fled to Belgium, where he earned his doctorate, other officials had left the country, including a constitutional court judge and members of the electoral commission.

For fear of an outbreak of new violence more than 100,000 people have fled Burundi into neighbouring countries.

A civil war that claimed 300,000 lives in Burundi ended in the country 12 years ago.

The opposition considers Nkurunziza’s attempt to serve a third term unconstitutional.

Protests that have gone on for weeks have not persuaded Nkurunziza to reverse course, with the EU and U.S. demanding a postponement of the election until the matter is resolved.

Parliamentary elections are to take place on Monday and presidential elections are scheduled for July 15.