Press Statement Tom Casey, Deputy Spokesman Washington, DC January 18, 2007 Burundi: Acquittal of Political Leaders Charged with Attempts to Overthrow the GovernmentThe United States applauds the results of the judicial process conducted by the Supreme Court of Burundi that has acquitted five of seven defendants, including former President Domitien Ndayizeye, former Vice-President Alphonse Kadege, Deo Niyonzima, Damien Ndarisigaranye, and Isidore Rufyikiri, charged with attempting to overthrow the government. Their acquittal is a result of Burundi's efforts to foster transparent and independent government institutions. We support Burundi's renewed momentum toward the establishment of a stable and inclusive democracy. We expect the judicial appeal by the two convicted defendants will afford them due process. 2007/038
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