The African Union is following, with deep concern, the declarations and communiqués issued recently by some of the Burundian parties regarding the peace process and the implementation of the cease-fire agreements concluded between the transitional government and the armed groups.

The African Union would like to refer, especially, to the communiqué issued by the CNDD on 21 February 2003, as well as to the press release by UPRONA, dated 22 February, and expresses its deep concern with this evolution, which will jeopardize the progress made in the restoration of peace and harmony in Burundi. The African Union notes that these developments come at a time when all factions have been exhorted to do their utmost to respect their commitments to join their efforts with those of the international community with a view to scrupulously implementing the different accords reached through political compromises in order to promote a better future for the people of Burundi.

The African Union launches an urgent appeal to all the political actors and the parties signatory to the different Agreements reached to show restraint and a spirit of compromise with a view to preserving the gains made and to complete the process of restoring peace to their country.

The African Union, whose military observers are already in Burundi, will do its utmost to help resolve all difficulties encountered on the ground, including providing for the combatants of the armed groups.

Addis Ababa, 26 February 2003