The Urgent Plea from Burundi: Security Council Action Needed for DRC Crisis
In a powerful address during an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council on Sunday, Zéphyrin Maniratanga, the Permanent Representative of Burundi to the UN, voiced his country’s firm stance on the worsening security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Specifically, he highlighted the escalating tensions around Goma and warned of potentially disastrous consequences.
A Region on the Brink of Chaos
Maniratanga emphasized that the situation in the DRC’s East, particularly in North Kivu, posed a threat not only to local peace and stability but also to international security. “The city of Goma is teetering on the edge today,” he declared, underscoring the potentially catastrophic implications of the crisis for the region and beyond.
Criticism of Security Council Silence
The Burundian representative strongly criticized the Security Council’s inaction in the face of repeated violations of the DRC’s territorial sovereignty and international humanitarian law. “Not a single resolution has been passed to condemn these blatant aggressions,” he lamented, describing the silence as “troubling.”
Support for Regional Peace Processes
Maniratanga commended the efforts within the frameworks of the Luanda and Nairobi processes, labeling them as “essential frameworks” for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. He called on all parties to honor their commitments within these frameworks and urged for their reinforcement.
Calls for Concrete Actions
Burundi put forth several demands to the Security Council, including:
– Immediate cessation of hostilities in the DRC’s East.
– Withdrawal of foreign forces involved in the conflict.
– Support for Congolese authorities in restoring state authority throughout the territory.
– Intensification of humanitarian aid for displaced populations, with a particular focus on women and children.
An Appeal for International Responsibility
Concluding his remarks, the Burundian diplomat urged the Security Council to take decisive action to prevent a humanitarian tragedy. “This Council cannot stand idly by in the face of an impending tragedy,” he asserted. “The security and stability of Central Africa and beyond hinge on your decisions.”
This call to action comes amid ongoing clashes between the DRC Armed Forces and the M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda according to multiple UN reports, which continue to destabilize the East of the DRC, leading to massive displacements of populations and worsening an already critical humanitarian crisis.