Monday February 19, 2024, despite the state of siege decreed in Ituri, the Provincial Assembly held an extraordinary session which brought together provincial deputies, the vice-governor, representatives of MONUSCO as well as traditional chiefs.
The session was chaired by Thomas Jatho Unencan, director of administration of the Provincial Assembly. During this meeting, Etienne Unega Ege was designated as president of the provisional office, assisted by two young members, Benjamin Pirwoth and Isaac Lebisabo.
Unega, former chief of staff to the military governor of Ituri, is an influential political figure in the region. At 71, he brings experience and wisdom to this new role. The members of the provisional office are committed to working for peace and the development of the province.
Their mission includes the validation of the mandates of deputies, the co-optation of customary leaders, the development of internal regulations and the organization of elections to establish the final office.
Emmanuel Leku, representative of the Mambasa territory, highlights the importance of focusing on security and infrastructure to prepare for a prosperous future for the province.
The next plenary session is scheduled for Wednesday, February 21, where the validation of the mandates of provincial deputies and the co-optation of traditional leaders will be on the agenda.
This extraordinary session testifies to the determination of local actors to work together to ensure the stability and development of Ituri, despite the challenges encountered.