This is the second time that Burundi’s application for membership of the integration organization of Southern African countries has been rejected. This decision follows the report produced by a Southern African Development Community (SADC) assessment mission that visited Burundi.
She concluded that the country did not meet the eligibility requirements for this 16-member organization.
SADC Chairman-in-Office Hage Geingob of Namibia gave more details on Monday, saying the rejection is due to the poor functioning of the democratic system in the country.
In April, Burundian Foreign Minister Ezekiel Nibigira met with the Namibian President to urge him to advocate for Burundi’s membership in the organization.
Burundi’s application for membership of SADC had already been rejected for the first time in February 2017.
