Burundi rejects African Union peacekeeping force

Burundi’s government has rejected the African Union’s plans to deploy a 5,000-strong peacekeeping force to stop escalating violence triggered by President Pierre Nkurunziza’s extended tenure in office.

Government spokesman Philippe Nzobonariba said if the African Union sent troops without Burundi’s consent it would be viewed as an attack, adding that Burundi had enough forces to maintain peace.