“With political violence in the African nation of Burundi escalating, the appointment of a special envoy for Africa’s Great Lakes Region is long overdue, but still welcome,” said Smith, calling for Perriello to have an "immediate and sustained" focus on Burundi. “Congressman Perriello will need to move rapidly to help alleviate the suffering and secure peace in the region. I stand ready to help in any way I can. Later this month I will chair a hearing on a way forward for Burundi, as we look for ways to overcome the political impasse created by President Pierre Nkurunziza’s refusal to abide by constitutionally-mandated term limits.”

The small-landlocked nation has witnessed escalating violence as President Nkurunziza campaigns for a third term in office despite constitutionally-mandated term limits. Grenade attacks and gunfire wracked the capital of Bujumbura last week as opposition parties boycotted the first-round legislative elections that precede the presidential election scheduled for July 15.  The United States and the European Union have suspended electoral support due to the deteriorating situation and the inability to ensure that the elections are free and fair.   

In May, Smith reiterated his call that the Administration appoint a special envoy, noting concern over the prolonged vacancy following former-envoy Russell Feingold’s departure, which was announced in February.
 

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