Burundi president to get $530,000 golden parachute
Wednesday January 22 2020
Burundi's President Pierre Nkurunziza arrives for the celebrations to mark Burundi's 55th anniversary of the independence at the Prince Louis Rwagasore stadium in Bujumbura, Burundi July 1, 2017. He died on June 9, 2020. PHOTO | REUTERS
The parliament of Burundi has voted to pay one billion francs ($530,000; £400,00) to President Pierre Nkurunziza as he prepares to leave office.
Mr Nkurunziza has promised not to run for another term in the general election due in May.
The draft law will also award him a lifetime salary, housing and the same benefits as a sitting vice-president.
The MPs also proposed Mr Nkurunziza be elevated to the title of “Supreme leader” and “Champion of patriotism”.
As a supreme leader, the president would yield some political power, especially within the ruling party which is expected to win this spring's election.
Burundians have mixed feelings about the bonuses awarded to Mr Nkurunziza. Some criticised the benefits handed out by the government of one of the poorest countries in the world, whilst others felt it was appropriate for serving the country with the highest of responsibilities.