Burundi begins trial of alleged coup plotters

Burundi military personnel drive through the Musaga neighbourhood of Bujumbura on December 11, 2015 (AFP Photo)

Former Defense Minister Gen. Cyrille Ndayirukiye led the suspects in petitioning the Supreme Court, sitting in the central town of Gitega, to improve the conditions of their detention before trial continues.

Ndayirukiye said they must use a bucket as a toilet and are being held in isolation. The court ordered prison authorities to improve the conditions of the suspects’ detention.

Burundi has been in turmoil since the April announcement that President Pierre Nkurunziza will seek a third term in office. Nkurunziza won elections in July but violence has since escalated.