Several Heads of State are again expected to meet in Dar es Salaam to try and find a solution to a potentially explosive issue; the tense political situation in Burundi. The previous attempt by regional leaders was interrupted in dramatic fashion; by an alleged coup attempt. Ever since, things have gone from bad to worse. Several people have lost their lives, including an opposition leader. Private radio stations were not only closed, but they were fire-bombed and razed to the ground. All because of a controversial decision by the incumbent president to vie for a third term. The Heads of States attempt to ease the tension in Burundi will be fruitless if both sides of the conflict do not compromise, set their egos aside and act in the interests of their citizens. Some sections of the Burundi political divide have even attempted to drag in the ethnic card that has been the bane of Burundi politics for decades. They, for sure, know where that route leads to, only an insensitive person would opt for that option. Burundian political players should also know that the mediators’ patience also has limits; they will not continue to take part in a conversation with the deaf. But above all, the duty of the Burundian politicians first lies in seeking the best for its people and not dragging a whole country down the abyss. The Burundians should take this session in Dar as their last chance to return sanity on their streets. They should not let it slip through their fingers.
