UN condemns attacks on peacekeepers in CAR

Moses Kuwema

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has strongly condemned Wednesday's attacks by unidentified armed combatants on Central African national defence and security forces and the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) near Bangui.

A peacekeeper from Rwanda was killed and another injured.

According to a statement by Secretary-General Guterres' spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, the UN chief expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the deceased peacekeeper, as well as to the people and Government of Rwanda.

Secretary General Guterres wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

The Secretary-General recalls that attacks against United Nations peacekeepers may constitute a war crime.

He called on the Central African Republic authorities to take all the necessary measures to ensure accountability for the heinous attacks.

The Secretary-General remains very concerned over continued destabilization efforts by armed groups in the Central African Republic and called on all parties to stop violence and engage in meaningful dialogue.

He commended the continued engagement of the United Nations peacekeepers in their efforts to protect civilians and preserve national stability.

The Secretary-General reiterated the commitment of the United Nations, working closely with national, regional and international partners, to support the cause of peace in the Central African Republic.

And as Ugandans prepare to take part in the presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled to take place on January 14, the Secretary General called on all national stakeholders to ensure that the polls are conducted in an inclusive, transparent and peaceful manner.
Secretary-General Guterres was concerned about reports of violence and tensions in parts of Uganda ahead of the polls and called on all political actors and their supporters to refrain from the use of hate speech, intimidation and violence.

Any electoral disputes should be resolved through legal and peaceful means.

The Secretary-General further calls on the Ugandan authorities, particularly the security forces, to show maximum restraint during this period and act according to established human rights principles.

The Secretary-General reiterates the commitment of the United Nations to support the country’s efforts to promote sustainable development and build a prosperous future.