UN condemns convoy attack, killing of peacekeeper in CAR

AN AMBUSH by unknown attackers on a convoy of the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (Minusca) in Bokayai, in the northwest part of the country, which killed one Bangladeshi peacekeeper, has been condemned by the UN Security Council.

In a press statement, the members of the council expressed their deepest condolences and sympathy to the peacekeeper’s family, the government of Bangladesh and Minusca, and extended their sympathies to the Central African Republic (CAR) government.

Strongly condemning all attacks and provocations against Minusca by armed groups, the council reminded all parties of their obligations under international humanitarian law.

Council members also called on CAR authorities to swiftly investigate the attack on demning this attack as well as aggressions and provocations against its peacekeepers, Minusca underlined, once again, that attacks targeting peacekeepers are unacceptable and may constitute a war crime.

Clashes between the mainly Muslim Séléka rebel coalition and anti-Balaka militia, which are mostly Christian, plunged the country 4.5 million people into civil conflict in 2013.

South African forces fought a hotly contested battle against rebels outside Bangui.

Despite significant progress and successful elections, CAR has remained in the grip of instability and sporadic unrest.

Last month, the mission supported a new dialogue between 11 of the 14 armed groups, as part of an ongoing effort to disarm the factions.