Statement attributable to the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General on the killing of Didace Namujimbo, Radio Okapi journalist

The Secretary-General learned with deep distress of the murder last Friday night in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, of Didace Namujimbo, a journalist of Radio Okapi, the MONUC (United Nations Organization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo) radio station managed in partnership with Fondation Hirondelle.

This crime is all the more devastating as it marks the second time in less than two years that a member of Radio Okapi's staff has been brutally killed in the same city.

Didace Namujimbo's murder underlines once again the deep insecurity in the DRC, particularly for journalists, whose work leaves them particularly vulnerable. The UN Mission in the DRC, MONUC, is following the investigation closely and the United Nations is prepared to provide all appropriate support to bring the investigation and subsequent trial to a successful conclusion. The Secretary-General calls upon the authorities of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to ensure that this case is investigated thoroughly and pursued to the full extent of the law.

The Secretary-General extends his deepest condolences to Mr. Namujimbo's wife and two children, his family, friends and colleagues.