Bintou Keita, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC and head of MONUSCO, recently addressed the UN Security Council in New York to discuss the security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His intervention highlighted the crucial importance of finding lasting political solutions to the current conflict, in order to avoid a regional escalation of the conflict.
The Head of MONUSCO welcomed the ongoing diplomatic efforts, particularly those of Angolan President Lourenço, while emphasizing MONUSCO’s total commitment to supporting the peace processes in place in Luanda and Nairobi. She also called on the Security Council to fully exercise its influence to encourage regional peace initiatives and ensure respect for international law by all parties involved.
One of the main points of attention of his speech was the escalation of violence observed in the Ituri region. Bintou Keita reported a significant increase in violence in the territory of Djugu, with dramatic consequences for local populations. Clashes between the Zaire and CODECO factions have cost the lives of many civilians, jeopardizing the peace and stabilization efforts undertaken by MONUSCO and the provincial authorities.
In addition, the head of MONUSCO addressed the issue of the gradual disengagement of the Mission, particularly in South Kivu. She stressed the need to carefully assess the situation on the ground and engage with provincial authorities to ensure a smooth transition. Despite the challenges encountered, Bintou Keita expressed his gratitude to troop and police contributing countries for their dedication and courage in the face of an increasingly unstable environment.
In conclusion, Bintou Keita stressed the importance of protecting United Nations peacekeepers and called for those responsible to be held accountable in the event of attacks against them. His intervention underlines the urgency of acting to prevent an escalation of violence in the DRC and to promote peaceful and lasting solutions for the well-being of local populations.