Burundi’s cabinet has suspended playing secular music in public places during the seven-day mourning announced by the government following the death of President Pierre Nkurunziza.
The mayor of the commercial capital, Bujumbura, Freddy Mbonimpa said secular music was banned but people could still play gospel music.
The governor of the capital, Gitega, Venant Manirambona ,said songs “praising God” were allowed.
Mayor Mbonimpa in a statement said leisure activities were suspended during the mourning period.
He said secular music in bars, restaurants, hairdressing salons, cars and all other places of gathering was banned.
Only wedding parties, funerals and mourning wakes are allowed, he said.
State radio and private broadcasters have continued to play gospel music as the country enters day four of mourning.
Mr Nkurunziza was an evangelical Christian.
Burundi’s President Pierre Nkurunziza, aged 55, died after suffering a cardiac arrest.
He was admitted to hospital on Saturday after feeling unwell, his condition improved but on Monday he had a cardiac arrest and efforts to revive him were unsuccessful, officials say.
After 15 years in power, Mr Nkurunziza was due to step down in August.
