Burundi's President Pierre Nkurunziza filed his candidacy to run for a third term in power Friday, saying elections will "go well" despite days of deadly protests at his controversial bid.

"These demonstrations have turned into insurrection, but it is something that will be controlled...and I assure you that the elections will go well," Nkurunziza said, as he handed over the documents needed to the electoral commission, surrounded by his supporters.