Evariste Ndayishimiye has been sworn in as Burundi’s new president, taking oath at a colourful ceremony in the capital, Gitega, after the sudden death of his predecessor.
Taking the oath of office on Thursday the new president pledged to devote all his force to defending the superior interests of the nation and ensure the national unity and cohesion of the Burundian people, peace and social justice.
A 21-gun salute rang out after he signed the pledge before the seven members of the constitutional court.
Pierre Nkurunziza, who ruled the East Africa nation for 15 often tumultuous years, died of a heart attack last week.
This is the first time a Burundian president has been sworn in before the people and not parliament.
