Ndayishimiye declared winner of Burundi's presidential election

Evariste Ndayishimiye, Burundi's governing party candidate, has been declared the winner of the country's presidential election held last week by the country's election commission.

According to the results announced on Monday, Ndayishimiye won 68.72 percent of the votes while Agathon Rwasa, the main opposition leader, received 24.19 percent.

Ndayishimiye is expected to succeed Pierre Nkurunziza, Burundi's outgoing president who is retiring after ruling the country for three terms. So far, Rwasa has not yet officially conceded defeat but had earlier alleged foul play, saying early numbers showing his National Congress for Liberty party heading for a defeat are not accurate.

Rwasa has also hinted that he would not take to the streets in protest and would appeal to the Constitutional Court if he feels aggrieved. The election, which was held on May 20 and was contested by seven presidential hopefuls, will lead to the first democratic transfer of power in 58 years of Burundi's independence. During the polls, Burundians also voted for lawmakers and local officials.

Once the final election results are declared by the Constitutional Court in June, Ndayishimiye is expected to be sworn in for a seven-year term in late August when Nkurunziza's term ends. Though he is retiring, Nkurunziza is expected to take on the title of Supreme Guide to Patriotism as well as remain chairman of the party's council of elders.