NEW YORK, 23 March 2016 (UN News Service): The DR Congo is at a critical juncture, with rising political tensions ahead of elections which could lead to violence if left unaddressed, the top United Nations official in the country warned the Security Council Wednesday, while highlighting key issues for consideration as it renews the UN's mandate there.
'Credible and meaningful political dialogue'
“FIRST, credible and meaningful political dialogue is needed to overcome the impasse in the electoral process,” said Maman Sidikou, the Head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the DR Congo (MONUSCO), referring to presidential and legislative elections scheduled for November of this year.
“A strong message on the need for political consensus and an agreed, sustainable way forward will be important, while also emphasizing the link between a credible electoral process and upholding fundamental human rights,” he added.
One month ago, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was in the DR Congo meeting with President Joseph Kabila, other senior Government officials, and representatives from civil society; he called on them to engage in constructive talks, putting the interest of the population at the centre of the debate.
'Neutralizing armed groups'
“SECOND, I am optimistic that we can capitalize on the spirit of enhanced cooperation with the Government to make early progress on the priority armed groups through improved cooperation between the Mission, the Government and the FARDC (the Congolese Government Forces), and with the support of other partners,” Mr. Sidikou continued.
He noted that “neutralizing armed groups goes beyond military operations and requires enhanced efforts to extend State authority and find durable solutions for former combatants.”
Reducing MONUSCO military personnel
Meanwhile, the UN official underlined that he counts on the Security Council's support to reduce an additional 1,700 military personnel from MONUSCO, in line with the Secretary-General's recommendation.
“The recommendation takes into account the Mission's plans to transform the Force and measures to address inefficiencies”.
“Based on projected capability and efficiency gains from the Force transformation, it was assessed that a further reduction of MONUSCO military personnel may be envisaged without compromising the Mission's ability to implement its mandate to protect civilians, including through the neutralization of armed groups,” Mr. Sidikou stressed.
He further insisted that the recommendation should be viewed as a “concrete step forward” in facilitating the strategic dialogue between the Mission and the Government with a view to achieving a common goal: the gradual and progressive exit of MONUSCO “that preserves the gains and investments made so far.”
Nationally-led disarmament and retintegration process
