The ruling party in Burundi has directed about five hundred citizens of Belgium to leave the country. The move follows unfavorable diplomatic relations between the two sides, amid increasing levels of violence in the former Belgian colony. Belgium had last week said those whose presence is not essential should leave but Burundi responded by accusing Belgium of links to opposition groups accused of spreading violence. Trouble started in April when President PIERRE NKURUNZIZA announced his intention to seek a third term in office, which he eventually secured in a controversial election.
