Burundi officials announced on Thursday that they are planning to resign from its membership in the International Criminal Court. This statement was made due to ICC prosecutor’s will to investigate last year’s riots that caused the death of hundreds of people. Violence emerged as a result of President Pierre Nkurunziza's controversial re-election. His decision to run for a third term violated the constitution and sparked unrest and revolt lead by citizens. This declaration is the first step on a very long way to withdraw from the ICC. President Pierre Nkurunziza and vice-president Gaston Sindimwo have already prepared a draft law to be discussed in the national parliament. 

It contains some scenarios and hypothetical solutions that can be useful in the future. Politicians aim to quit the Rome Status in order to avoid any criminal case against the authorities.

The treaty is the main pillar of the ICC. The organization attracts a wave of criticism because of previous trials. It is considered to be an anti-African court because most of the accusations target African countries.

Vice-President claims that it would not be a revolutionary step backward for Burundi. He points out that the major powers in the international order are not members of the Rome Status and they do not experience an isolation because of that. According to the authorities, withdrawal is necessary to regain country’s autonomy.

Burundi is not interested in cooperation with the international community. A few days ago the officials refused to adapt to a UN decision on establishing a special commission that would help to identify people responsible for killings and torture constantly happening in Burundi.

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