Conflict in Burundi: Things to know about African nation

The Republic of Burundi has witnessed a coup like situation in recent days. Mass protests were organised protests against President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for an unconstitutional third term in power.

Below are things one should know about Burundi conflict

• Burundi got independence from Belgium in 1962.
• A large majority of Burundi's population are farmers.
• According to the World Food Program, Only a small 28% of the population are "Food-Secure" with a further 58% of the population chronically malnourished.
• From October 1993 to August 2005, Burundi suffered under 15 years of brutal civil conflict.
• First democratic elections were held in July 1993.
• Melchior Ndadaye became the first democratically elected President as well as the first Hutu tribal member to hold the position.
• Melchior Ndadaye was assassinated in October 1993.
• Ndadaye's assassination resulted into a failed coup and a yearlong violence that claimed an estimated 100,000 lives.
• Stability remained elusive in the country till 2005.
• Disputed President Pierre Nkurunziza elected following his election in 2005.
• On Wednesday, May 13th 2015, Major General Godefroid Nyombare announced that he was relieving President Nkurunziza of his duties.
• The coup attempt against his bid to seek a third term was launched while he was in Tanzania.