BUJUMBURA, Burundi (CNS) -- As a political crisis deepened in Burundi before local and presidential elections, Burundi's Catholic bishops described recent events as "grave" and demanded wisdom from the country's leaders.

"No serious person who loves their country, especially if they are a leader or politician, should take this situation lightly or remain indifferent," the bishops' conference stated in a May 5 statement.

On April 25, the government announced incumbent President Pierre Nkurunziza will run again despite a constitutional ban on a presidential third term. Since the announcement, the country has been plunged into chaos, with severe repression of demonstrations, which have been banned, restrictions on the media and thousands of refugees fleeing into neighbouring countries.

On May 4, the vice president of Burundi's constitutional court left the country, after the court -- reportedly under pressure from the government -- pronounced Nkurunziza's third term as acceptable The court's vice president, Sylvere Nimpagaritse, said to remain in Burundi would endanger his life because he did not believe a third term was constitutional.

Despite questions by the international community as to whether elections can go ahead in such a climate of tension, the bishops said that elections are the way forward. Local and presidential elections are set for May 26 and June 26, respectively.

"We strongly recommend the way of elections to all, so that the country will not lack institutions elected by the people, who enjoy the confidence of the people ... May all those charged with this responsibility do everything so that the elections take place in security, with freedom of movement for candidates and voters, in a competition that allows candidates equal opportunities to calmly present their platforms and manifestoes."

The bishops recommended renewed dialogue rather than confrontation and insisted that the media be allowed to do its work freely. After the 25 April announcement, the local broadcasting transmitters of the prestigious Radio Publique Africaine, known for its independence, were blocked and its phone lines temporarily cut. Two other radio stations also were stopped from broadcasting.

"It is just that the media should have freedom to operate, in respect for relevant laws and for the editorial line that each one has agreed to follow. If a media outlet is closed, the citizenry are the victims, as this just allows rumors to spread," the bishops said.

In reaction to numerous reports circulating that Nkurunziza's ruling party has been giving paramilitary training and distributing arms to its youth wing, the Imbonerakure, the bishops addressed a special message to the youth of the country:

"Take care not to be manipulated by those who would wish to drag you on the path of injustice, or along paths that would prevent you from having a good start in life to prepare you for a good future ... Do not drop out of school or skip the classes that can ... allow you to advance along the different paths of life."