Secretary-General Condemns Increased Attacks on Civilians in Central African

Republic, Calls for Restraint, Protection of Human Rights

 

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

The Secretary-General is very concerned about the prevailing situation in the Central African Republic, which remains volatile, unpredictable and lawless.

He is particularly worried about the increasing number of targeted attacks and retaliations against Muslims and Christians, including the most recent incidents on the Bossangoa-Bossembele axis.  He strongly condemns these attacks, which have the potential to further escalate the crisis in the country.

The Secretary-General calls on all parties, including ex-Séléka combatants and new self-defence groups, to refrain from acts of violence against civilian populations, and to respect human rights.  He reminds national authorities of their responsibility to bring to justice perpetrators of these massacres and protect all Central Africans from abuses.

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For information media • not an official record