Burundi lawmaker 'assassinated' in the capital: Authorities

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KIGALI, Rwanda (AP) — A senior Burundian member of the East African Legislative Assembly was shot dead Wednesday in what authorities called an assassination amid the country's political unrest.

Police spokesman Pierre Nkurikiye said Hafsa Mossi was killed in the capital, Bujumbura, by two unknown gunmen who had trailed her from her home.

Mossi also was Burundi's former minister for East African affairs.

Burundi has been gripped by violence that has left more than 500 people dead since President Pierre Nkurunziza in April 2015 announced his bid for a third term, which opponents said violated the constitution. More than 250,000 people have fled to neighboring countries.

Burundi peace talks in Tanzania have stalled amid disagreement over who should attend.