Bujumbura, Burundi - Burundi's security forces removed barricades in the capital Bujumbura on Sunday following a government order for an immediate end to protests against President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial bid for a third term.
Protesters had pledged to defy the order and continue weeks of street demonstrations, branding the government demand a "declaration of war". But there was limited resistance as security forces deployed.
One man however was shot, and later died, as police and soldiers used force to remove barricades erected in some city neighbourhoods after the government's order to dismantle all barriers within 48 hours.
"The military came to tell us that the roads were to be cleared and we could not resist armed men with guns. We decided to let it go," said Fabrice, a leader of the protest movement.
Meanwhile a small, peaceful rally was held in the city centre for the first time on Sunday when hundreds of women gathered outside the interior ministry to call for "peace and unity".
"We want peace, we want unity and democracy for all Burundians," they chanted, ringed by dozens of police officers.
The women ended their protest without violence after police prevented them from marching to the city's Independence Square.
"The police do not dare shoot women," said 18-year-old protester Kelly.
AFP
