SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES INDIGNATION, SHOCK AT CONTINUED FIGHTING IN KISANGANI
Press Release
SG/SM/7447
SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES INDIGNATION, SHOCK AT CONTINUED FIGHTING IN KISANGANI
20000610The following statement by Secretary-General Kofi Annan was issued by his Spokesman on Saturday, 10 June:
I wish to express my deep indignation and shock that fighting in Kisangani is continuing, with the loss of an estimated 100 civilian lives, including schoolchildren, and more than 1,000 casualties.
Despite my appeals at the highest levels, and in violation of the clear undertakings given to me, the armed forces of Rwanda and Uganda continue their senseless fighting in the territory of a third country, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. There can be no possible justification for this reckless victimization of the civilian population, who are trapped in a conflict not of their own making. The continuing destruction of property, including the power station, the hydro- electric dam, the cathedral and countless dwellings, is also deeply deplorable.
I call on the international community to ensure that this outrage is brought to an end, and I will make recommendations to the Security Council accordingly.
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