Title: The different communities of Ituri demand the maintenance of MONUSCO in exchange for peace
Introduction :
In the province of Ituri in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the various communities have expressed their wish that the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) remain in the region until peace be restored. During an exchange with the head of MONUSCO, Bintou Keita, the representatives of the communities made the withdrawal of the mission conditional on the establishment of a plan to protect the population and the restoration of the authority of the State in areas occupied by armed groups. This request highlights the importance of MONUSCO’s role in maintaining security and stability in Ituri.
The concerns of the Ituri communities:
During the meeting with the head of MONUSCO, the representatives of the various communities expressed their concerns about the abuses committed by certain misguided elements of the armed groups who are not in agreement with the disarmament and peace processes. They stressed that the population needed effective protection, and for that, MONUSCO had to transfer its security skills to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the National Police. The communities also asked the UN mission to help the Congolese government restore state authority in all areas occupied by armed groups in Ituri.
MONUSCO’s commitment:
Bintou Keita, the special representative of the UN secretary-general in the DRC, took note of the concerns of the Ituri communities and promised to convey their demands to the Congolese authorities as soon as she returns to Kinshasa. This willingness to listen and dialogue on the part of MONUSCO shows its commitment to working together with local communities to guarantee security and stability in the region. The UN mission plays a crucial role in protecting civilians and coordinating peacekeeping efforts with national authorities.
Conclusion :
The request of the various communities of Ituri to maintain the presence of MONUSCO in the region underlines the importance of the UN mission in the restoration of peace and security. By working in collaboration with the Congolese authorities and the national police, MONUSCO can help restore State authority in areas occupied by armed groups, thus ensuring the protection of local populations