Burundi talks: Museveni optimistic

{Former Tanzanian president Benjamin Mkapa, the mediator of the Burundi peace process has briefed President Yoweri Museveni on the progress of the talks. }

“H.E. Benjamin Mkapa today briefed me on progress of the Burundi peace process. I am optimistic a breakthrough will be achieved soon,” Museveni said.

The talks have been suspended at least five times since the effort was initiated last year as the Burundi government insists it will not sit at the table with those opposition leaders it accuses of organising protests and plotting the failed coup last year.

The government of President Pierre Nkurunziza has been steadfast in its refusal to talk with opponents implicated in a coup attempt last year aimed at stopping his bid for a third-term in office.