Secretary-General, Condemning Latest Violence in Central African Republic,

Stresses Need for List Naming Those who Undermine Peace, Stability

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

The Secretary-General is concerned by the latest upsurge in violence in the Central African Republic.  This further deterioration of the security situation in the country has resulted in additional fatalities, a high number of injured and increased hardship for the population.

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest possible terms all acts of violence against civilians and against international forces working in the Central African Republic to re-establish peace and order.  He stresses the fundamental importance of protecting civilians at all times.

The Secretary-General reminds all those who are involved in spreading the violence, including those directly or indirectly supporting or otherwise facilitating the actions of armed groups, that they will be held accountable for their actions and brought to justice.  In this regard, he stresses the importance of quickly establishing a list of individuals who act to undermine peace, stability and security in the Central African Republic, as called for by Security Council resolution 2127 (2013).

The Secretary-General reaffirms the full commitment of the United Nations to help the Central African Republic emerge from the ongoing crisis and to build peace.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record