UN Peacekeeping Chief Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in DRC

The head of United Nations peacekeeping has called for an immediate halt to hostilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as tensions escalate between the March 23 Movement (M23) and the Congolese government, resulting in widespread displacement and civilian casualties.

In an interview, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the U.N. Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, expressed deep concern over the growing violence, warning of increased instability in the region and a worsening humanitarian crisis.

In recent months, clashes between the DRC government and M23 forces have intensified, with the rebel group launching major offensives and seizing significant territory in North Kivu and South Kivu provinces. Additionally, the Congo River Alliance, a political-military faction aligned with M23, has established a parallel provincial administration in these areas.

While M23’s advance has slowed, Lacroix warned that the situation remains volatile, with the potential for further escalation and regional destabilization. He stressed the urgent need for de-escalation, given the severe humanitarian toll.

When asked about the prospects for peace, Lacroix reaffirmed the U.N. mission’s commitment to protecting civilians, emphasizing that MONUSCO (the U.N. Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC) continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding hundreds of thousands of people despite mounting challenges.

He also pointed to diplomatic efforts as a positive development, highlighting the involvement of regional organizations such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) in peace negotiations.

The U.N. Security Council recently adopted Resolution 2773, demanding an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of foreign military forces from the DRC. The resolution underscores the need for both the DRC and Rwanda to uphold their commitments under the Luanda Process and seek a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.

Lacroix stressed that achieving a ceasefire is the first critical step and urged intensified diplomatic efforts to reach this goal. He confirmed that MONUSCO is prepared to monitor and support the implementation of a ceasefire, warning that any delay could further escalate the crisis.

AFRICANEWS/S.S