Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza has died of a heart attack, according to the government.
In a statement posted on Twitter on Tuesday, the government announced “with great sorrow to Burundians and the international community” the passing of Nkurunziza, 55.
The outgoing president died at Karusi hospital after suffering a heart attack on June 8, the statement added.
Nkurunziza who spent three terms in office is due to leave office later this year at the expiration of his term and following last month’s election of former Army General, Evariste Ndayishimiye, as the new president in an election that was marred by rigging and irregularities according to the opposition.
The Burundian President also last month awarded himself the title of ‘supreme guide to patriotism’ once he steps down. The title meant that he must be consulted by his successor on issues of national security before any decision can be made. Nkurunziza equally awarded himself $540,000 retirement payout and a luxury villa.
