The United Nations Security Council Monday reiterated its full support for the nascent peace process in Burundi, approving the Secretary-Generals request to renew the mandate of the Central African countrys UN peace-building office and increase its resources.
Adopting a presidential statement, the Council also said it was concerned by the “dire humanitarian situation” in Burundi. Holding the parties responsible for allowing humanitarian organizations unrestricted access to civilians, the Council condemned acts of violence and violations of human rights.
Reading the statement on behalf of the members, President Stefan Tafrov of Bulgaria said the Council welcomes recent steps towards peace, including last months signing of a comprehensive ceasefire between Burundis transitional government and its biggest rebel group, le Conseil National pour la Defense de la Democratie – Forces pour la Defense de la Democratie (CNDD-FDD).
It urged another armed rebel group, Parti pour la liberation du people Hutu – Forces nationals de liberation-Agathon Rwasa (PALIPEHUTU-FNL), to join the peace process immediately.
Earlier this month, Secretary-General Kofi Annan recommended that the mandate of the UNs Office in Burundi (UNOB), due to expire on 31 December, be extended for another year. By todays action, the Council approved the renewal as well as a small increase in staff to respond to increasing needs in the areas of peacekeeping and security.
The statement also called for the international community to provide greater financial support to Burundi, including by backing the African Unions mission in the country, which is emerging from a decade of civil strife that left between 250.000 and 300.000 people dead.
Kilde: FNs Nyhedstjeneste
