Power struggle in Burundi ‘far from over’

The head of Burundi’s army said an attempted coup had failed and forces loyal to President Pierre Nkurunziza were in control but heavy gunfire in the capital suggested the battle for power was far from over.

Army chief of staff general Prime Niyongabo’s announcement came a day after another general said he had sacked Nkurunziza for seeking an unconstitutional third term in office, developments that have alarmed neighbouring governments.

Heavy gunfire was heard coming from the direction of the state broadcasting headquarters. State radio and television both went off air. The state broadcaster is seen as a vital asset for both sides to reach the population.