Burundi's president urges unity after contentious polls

Bujumbura - Burundi's re-elected president is urging unity after winning contentious polls that the international community says were not credible.

In a televised speech on Thursday night, Pierre Nkurunziza said he would be a president for all, including those who did not vote for him.

He said that during his presidency "everyone will enjoy the same rights and opportunities without favouritism".

Nkurunziza won 69% of the vote while his closest rival, Agathon Rwasa, got 19% in the July 21 elections.

The elections took place amid violence stemming from regular street protests against Nkurunziza's bid for a third term in office, which many saw as unconstitutional.

The UN had urged Burundi's government to delay the elections until the situation was sufficiently calm to hold credible, free and fair elections.