MONUSCO: A3 Statement

Madam President,

I have the pleasure to deliver this statement on behalf of the A3, namely, Gabon, Ghana and Kenya.

We thank SRSG Bintou Keita, Secretary-General Dr. Peter Mutuku Mathuki and Ms. Rebecca Kabuo for their briefings.

We thank the representative of Gabon and Chair of the 1533 Committee for the briefing.

We welcome H.E. Mr. Christophe Lutundula Apala Pen'apala, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Our statement will focus on the political, security and humanitarian situation.

On the political front, we commend the government's commitment to hold elections in 2023, in accordance with the Constitution. We welcome the commitment by H.E. President Felix Tshisekedi to rebuild trust and confidence between the DRC and neighbouring countries. We also welcome the regional efforts to de-escalate tensions and pave the way for lasting peace, stability and development in the DRC.

We note with concern the heightened tensions between DRC and Rwanda as well as the use of hate speech, disinformation and misinformation. We implore both countries to use the available regional mechanisms to normalize relations. Both countries need each other for peace, security and prosperity.

We strongly condemn all forms of social, cultural and political manipulation that contribute to the mistrust, tension, animosity and even inciting violence. We reiterate that those engaging in hate speech, disinformation and misinformation campaigns must be held accountable.

We urge for the continued participation of, and dialogue between, the various communities in order to contribute to building a climate of trust and promoting a culture of tolerance, respect and harmonious relations. This remains the primary objective of the inter-Congolese peace dialogue.

Madam President on the security situation,

The A3 strongly condemn armed groups terror activities, especially the M23, as well as the recent massacre of civilians that took place in Kishishe. We reiterate the need for concerted effort to bring an end to all violence and to hold the perpetrators accountable.

All parties to the conflict must put a definitive end to the armed conflict and historical cycles of violence. Only collectively can they herald a new chapter in eastern DRC to lay the foundations for peace and the rule of law.

The process of laying the foundation for a stable and lasting peace requires the effective reintegration of ex-combatants into the country's social, economic and political life.

Emphasis should be placed on ex-combatants to recognise that reintegration constitutes commitment to close the chapter of armed conflict as a means to address political grievances; to make a resolute contribution to consolidating peaceful coexistence; guarantees of non-repetition of the conflict; and the dismantling of the conditions that have facilitated the persistence of violence in the Congo.

We welcome the UN and the international community's support for the deployment of an East African Community regional force aimed at demobilization and disarmament of all armed groups including complementing ongoing political and diplomatic efforts as well as MONUSCO operations in support of the FARDC.

There is need to improve the effectiveness as well as safety and security of all the forces deployed on Congolese territory. This calls for setting up a joint coordination framework under the aegis of the DRC that will support liaison in its areas of operation including, and not limited to, protection of civilians, communications and information sharing, operational support, P-DDRCS and training.

The A3 reiterates the call for an immediate ceasefire, withdrawal from recently taken positions and utilisation of the inter-Congolese peace dialogue by all armed groups. The only sustainable path to peace and security in eastern DRC remains a political one.

We call on the UN and the AU to enhance their support for these regional processes in order to sustain these peace and security efforts.

We further call on the international community to redouble its efforts to support the Government of DRC to restore state presence and authority in all territories. It is unacceptable that the Congolese populations are constantly under the threat of armed groups who loot, terrorize and perpetuate unspeakable atrocities with impunity.

Madam President,

The A3 underscore the importance of truth, justice and reconciliation in all peacebuilding efforts. We encourage the DRC to continue strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that social and cultural conflicts can be resolved through institutional channels, with justice for those taking part in the process.

We urge all international partners to support the Government's efforts to establish a transitional justice system. This commitment will represent a critical step towards the end of the enormous suffering that the conflict has caused millions of Congolese men, women and children alike.

The search for truth, justice and reconciliation for victims will ensure the centrality of the needs of communities affected by violence. This is essential for the future generations to understand their origins and identity, the truth about events occurring before birth as well as exemption from responsibility for actions committed by previous generations. This will contribute to greater social and cultural integration and inclusion, promote equality and ensure full enjoyment of citizenship rights.

Madam President on the humanitarian situation,

The A3 remains concerned by the deteriorating humanitarian situation that has left many civilians especially women and children disproportionately affected.

We call upon the Secretary-General to enhance humanitarian assistance to refugees and internally displaced persons.

The A3 underscores the importance of socio-economic development for sustaining peace and alleviating human suffering through poverty eradication, promotion of entrepreneurship, and the lawful and sustainable use of natural resources.

We urge for comprehensive social and economic reforms, which will foster structural change particularly in conflict prone areas, overcoming the disparities that exist between communities, and creating conditions for better quality of life and well-being among the Congolese population.

In conclusion, Madam President, the A3 commends the efforts of MONUSCO in promoting peace and security in the DRC.

We reiterate our solidarity with the Government and the people of DRC and reaffirm our respect for the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence of the DRC.

I thank you for your attention.