Burundi to take third-country deportees from US

Burundi has agreed to accept migrants deported from the United States under former President Donald Trump's strict immigration policy, according to a recent statement. However, the country will only accept those not accused of criminal activities or terrorism links, as stated by Nancy Ninette Mutoni, a spokesperson for President Evariste Ndayishimiye.

The spokesperson did not provide specifics on the numbers, timing, or financial aspects of the arrangement. The United States has reportedly sent these "third-country deportees" to several African nations through undisclosed agreements, with Senate Democrats estimating the costs at tens of millions of dollars. Rights groups argue that these deals enable the US to bypass legal protections granted to deportees in US immigration courts.

Mutoni revealed that preparations are being made to arrange accommodation, living conditions, and integration into local communities for the deportees. She emphasized that Burundi aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and offer assistance to those in need, adding that potential citizenship will be granted if the deportees choose to join Burundian citizens and contribute to national development.

A Burundi foreign ministry spokesperson mentioned that details of the agreement were still pending. The US State Department did not provide an immediate response to requests for comment.