VIOLENT clashes have erupted across Burundi before a controversial referendum to extend President Pierre Nkurunziza’s term of office.

Proposed reforms to Burundi’s constitution would extend the presidential term from five years to seven, allowing Mr Nkurunziza to run again in 2020. 

While it would limit the president to two consecutive terms, it would not take into account previous time in office, paving the way for Mr Nkurunziza to stay in power until 2034.