Peace mission troops told to observe discipline

ZAMBIA Army commander, Lieutenant general Paul Mihova has warned troops on a peacekeeping mission to the war-torn Central African Republic (CAR) not to get involved in sexual exploitation and abuse as this could lead Zambia being banned in such missions. Speaking during the sendoff parade for 517 Zambatt fourth batch of peacekeepers to CAR in Lusaka yesterday, Gen Mihova emphasize on the need for troops to maintain highest standards of discipline.

“You as peacekeepers will be expected to carry out your mandate impartially by acting professionally in all your duties. “Let me also emphasize the need for all of you to maintain the highest standards of discipline , you need to observe your terms of reference at all times and do not for any reason get entangled in the politics of the history of the country but to remain neutral and nonpartisan, “said Gen Mihova.

He also said the instability in CAR has had a negative effect on that country’s agenda adding that it has also been unable to effectively play its role as a member of the international community due to the persistent conflicts.

He said it was gratifying to note that the international community has not abandoned that country, but had helped to mobilise resources to support the peace efforts aimed at ending the conflict under the auspices of the UN.

Meanwhile, Army Chief of Operations Brigadier general

William Sikazwe said the 517 troops are expected to fly off to the mission tomorrow.

Gen Sikazwe said the troops had undergone for intensive pre-deployment training in order to prepare them mentally, physically and psychologically for the tasks ahead with the assistance of the United States, British and French Governments.