Condemning Deadly Violence in Central African Republic, Secretary-General Says Such Actions Must Not Undermine Work of Rebuilding Nation

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General condemns the outbreak of violence on 24 October in Bangui, Central African Republic, which resulted in the tragic death of at least four civilians and the injuring of a further nine.  He deplores the attacks against the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), in which five peacekeepers were injured.

The Secretary-General welcomes the determination of the Government to ensure that the perpetrators and instigators of these attacks are brought to justice.  He also welcomes the commitment of MINUSCA to investigate the events which led to the deaths and injuries.  He reiterates that MINUSCA will take all necessary measures, in line with its mandate to protect civilians and foster stability.

The Secretary-General reiterates that the actions of those seeking to destabilize the Government and harm the country's prospects for peace and stability must not undermine the important work of rebuilding the country’s infrastructure, promoting social cohesion, reconciliation and economic recovery, strengthening the rule of law and creating opportunities for all.

He welcomes the important steps taken by the Government to address the root causes of the conflict through an inclusive political process and lay the foundations for long-term stability in the Central African Republic.  He is confident that the upcoming donors’ conference in Brussels, on 17 November, will galvanize international support for these key priorities.