The security situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo was at the center of discussions during the recent meeting of the United Nations Security Council. Bintou Keita, head of the UN mission in the DRC, stressed the need to find political and regional solutions to end the current crisis.
In his speech, Bintou Keita expressed concern about the intensification of fighting between the M23 rebel group and other armed groups allied with the Congolese government, despite the ceasefire largely being respected between the Congolese armed forces and the M23. She also deplored the occupation by the M23 of strategic areas such as Masisi, Rutshuru and Nyiragongo, as well as the blocking of missions of the United Nations Mission in the DRC in Rumangabo.
The UN diplomat strongly called for the immediate withdrawal of M23 terrorists from the areas they occupy, while emphasizing their non-compliance with the resolutions of the Luanda road map. She also urged the signatory states of this roadmap to fully support the process of pre-cantonment of M23 elements in Rumangabo.
On another note, Bintou Keita praised the efforts of the Congolese authorities and the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to organize the elections within the constitutional deadlines. However, she stressed the need for dialogue between Congolese political actors to guarantee peaceful elections. According to her, quality elections are essential to consolidate the country’s democratic achievements and strengthen institutional stability.
Antonio Guterres’ representative in the DRC also noted a significant improvement in the freedom of movement of political opposition actors in the country, which is a positive step for Congolese democracy.
In conclusion, the security situation in the eastern part of the DRC remains worrying, and political and regional solutions are necessary to remedy it. The immediate withdrawal of M23 terrorists and the implementation of the Luanda road map resolutions are essential to achieve peace and stability in the region. In addition, dialogue between Congolese political actors is essential to ensure peaceful elections and consolidate the country’s democratic achievements.