Security Council demands halt to rebel attacks in CAR
December 29, 2012: The United Nations Security Council has demanded that armed groups
in the Central African Republic (CAR) immediately cease hostilities, following attacks
on several towns in recent days, and called on all parties to seek a peaceful solution
to the current crisis.
In a statement issued to the press on Friday, the 15-member
body condemned “the continued attacks on several towns perpetrated by the ‘Seleka’
coalition of armed groups which gravely undermine the Libreville Comprehensive Peace
Agreement and threaten the civilian population as well as the stability of the Central
African Republic.”
The 2008 Libreville Agreement helped bring a degree of
stability to CAR, which has a history of political instability and recurring armed
conflict. Earlier this week, rebels reportedly captured the northern city of Bambari
as well as the area around Bria.
“The members of the Security Council reiterate
their demand that the armed groups immediately cease hostilities, withdraw from captured
cities and cease any further advance towards the city of Bangui,” the statement added,
referring to the capital of CAR.
“They call on all parties to refrain from
any acts of violence against civilians and to respect human rights and emphasize that
those responsible for violations should be held accountable. They call again on all
parties to seek a peaceful solution by engaging constructively in an appropriate political
dialogue.”
Meanwhile, the UN is temporarily relocating dependents and non-essential
staff amid the latest violence.