Security Council commends UN mission’s handling of tensions in DR Congo

The Security Council today commended the United Nations mission (MONUC) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for resolving tensions in Bukavu and responding to violence in Ituri.

In a statement to the press, Council President Jean-Marc de la Sablière of France also condemned recent atrocities as well as propaganda against MONUC.

Addressing the armed groups in the DRC, he emphasized that “such actions will not be tolerated any more” and voiced support for the UN mission’s “robust” mandate. Late last month, UN troops returned fire against attacking militia in Ituri.

The Security Council called on the DRC’s transitional government to exercise its authority in the eastern areas of the country and to punish those responsible for these crimes, he said.

“They underline the importance of nominating provincial governors, which must be done without delay and in a transparent and consultative manner,” Mr. de la Sablière said at a press conference, which followed a closed-door Council briefing by UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Marie Guéhenno.

The 15 members also urged all governments in the region to ensure that their territories are not used to support armed groups operating in Ituri and in North and South Kivu.