Secretary-General ‘Appalled’ by Attack Causing First Peacekeeper Death in Central African Republic, Condemns Killing of Blue Helmets as ‘Entirely Unacceptable’

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

The Secretary-General is appalled by the attack by unknown perpetrators against a United Nations convoy today in PK11 in Bangui, resulting in the killing of a peacekeeper.  Eight additional peacekeepers were also injured in the attack.  This is the first death of a United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) peacekeeper since the transfer of authority from the African-led International Support Mission to the Central African Republic (MISCA) on 15 September.

The Secretary-General condemns in the strongest possible terms the killing and wounding of United Nations peacekeepers.  Such acts against those who are working towards peace and security in the Central African Republic are entirely unacceptable.  The perpetrators of the violence, which has also resulted in a number of civilians killed since the clashes in the capital began on 7 October, must also be brought to justice.

The Secretary-General calls on all actors to refrain from further violence.  He calls upon the Transitional Authority to take all necessary steps to ensure the implementation of the Cessation of Hostilities agreement signed in Brazzaville on 23 July as a matter of priority and reminds the parties of their commitments under the agreement.  He underscores that a comprehensive political solution is the only way to successfully complete the country’s transition and bring sustainable peace and stability to the Central African Republic.

The Secretary-General offers his sincere condolences and sympathy to the family of the victim and to his Government.