BURUNDI: Burundi's Jean-Baptiste Bagaza was 'tough and controversial'

Colonel Jean-Baptiste Bagaza, who has died aged 69 (see post 10:12 post), was a controversial figure in Burundi politics.

Jean-Baptiste Bagaza died at a hospital in Belgium

The former Burundian president is credited for improving the country’s economy, infrastructure and the manufacturing industry during his 11-year rule from 1976-1987.

But he was also known for taking tough and unpopular measures.

Just before he was toppled from power, Mr Bagaza banned all public prayers on weekdays. Some Catholic priests were arrested for defying the order.

Mr Bagaza was also a staunch critic of the current government.

He had been made a senator for life and had accused President Pierre Nkurunziza’s government of failing to stop the violence in Burundi.

But despite his open condemnation of the president’s decision to run for a third term last year, Mr Nkurunziza praised his opponent for his achievements.

BBC Africa