Burundi general announces coup against Nkurunziza

A top Burundian general on Wednesday announced the overthrow of President Pierre Nkurunziza, following weeks of violent protests against the president's bid to stand for a third term.

"President Pierre Nkurunziza is removed from office, the government is dissolved," General Godefroid Niyombare said in a radio broadcast.

The broadcast by Niyombare — a highly respected figure who was sacked from his position as the central African nation's powerful chief of intelligence in February — came hours after Nkurunziza left the country for neighbouring Tanzania.

He was travelling to attend talks with regional leaders on ending his country's crisis.

"All people are asked to respect the lives and property of others," Mr Niyombare added.