News of the day: Bintou Keita calls for a gradual and responsible withdrawal of Monusco in the DRC
In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Special Representative of the UN Secretary General, Bintou Keita, stressed the importance of addressing security challenges in the region and ensuring a gradual and responsible withdrawal of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the DRC (Monusco).
Currently visiting Bukavu, South Kivu, Bintou Keita held discussions with provincial authorities, civil society, the UN country team and other partners. This visit comes as options are being studied for the reconfiguration of the presence of Monusco, following the request of the Security Council.
During her meetings, the Special Representative stressed the importance of establishing a balance between the need to accelerate the transition process, desired by the DRC, and the guarantee of minimum conditions of security and protection of civilians before the departure of the Blue Helmets.
Bintou Keita also insisted on the cooperation needed to ensure a common understanding of the realities faced by all partners, as well as to address the challenges and ensure a gradual and responsible withdrawal from the mission, transferring responsibilities to national authorities.
The objective of this visit is therefore to work in collaboration with local actors in order to find solutions to ensure stability and transition in the DRC, while guaranteeing the safety of civilian populations.
The situation in eastern DRC is complex and presents many challenges, particularly in terms of security. It is therefore essential to take into account local realities in the process of transition and withdrawal of MONUSCO, in order to ensure a peaceful and sustainable transition.
Bintou Keita’s visit to Bukavu is an essential step in this process, making it possible to strengthen coordination and cooperation between the various actors involved, and to work together to find solutions that meet the needs and aspirations of the Congolese people.
In conclusion, the UN Special Representative in the DRC, Bintou Keita, emphasizes the importance of addressing security challenges in the east of the country and ensuring a gradual and responsible withdrawal of Monusco. This visit to Bukavu aims to strengthen cooperation and find solutions to ensure stability and transition in the DRC, while guaranteeing the safety of civilian populations