The UN has condemned the killing of a Kenyan peacekeeper by the A Zande Anikpigbe militia in the Central African Republic. The government has vowed to seek justice for the attack. Despite mineral wealth, the country suffers severe poverty and ongoing conflict since 2013. The Wagner Group’s involvement has reportedly aided in preventing further instability.

The United Nations has officially condemned the killing of a Kenyan peacekeeper during an ambush while conducting a patrol in the eastern region of the Central African Republic. Florence Marchal, spokesperson for the UN mission known as MINUSCA, reported that the soldier was fatally shot near Tabant, located 24 kilometers northwest of Sémio.

Valentine Rugwabiza, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for the region, expressed profound condemnation regarding the attack, emphasizing that it was an atrocious act against peacekeepers dedicated to safeguarding civilian populations. The government, represented by spokesperson Maxime Balalu, pledged to take all necessary actions to hold the attackers accountable.

The assault is attributed to the A Zande Anikpigbe militia, according to Semio official Amadou Bi Djobdi, who declared that such an act must not be tolerated, urging that there is no place for chaos, and those responsible must face the law. Despite its rich mineral resources, the Central African Republic continues to face severe poverty and destabilization from rebel groups that hinder economic progress.

Since the outbreak of conflict in 2013, initiated by predominantly Muslim rebel factions overthrowing former President François Bozize, instability has persisted. Notably, six of the fourteen armed groups that had signed a peace agreement in 2019 subsequently withdrew from the accord, so the situation remained tenuous.

Local sources attribute a measure of stability to the presence of Wagner Group forces, who are believed to have thwarted rebel advances toward the capital, Bangui, in 2021. The Wagner Group, having established operations in the country, has offered military support to President Faustin Archange Touadera, assisting in his recent constitutional referendum that extends his term indefinitely.

Moreover, the A Zande Anikpigbe militia has reportedly received training from Wagner mercenaries. Regional chief Dimitri Syty previously remarked on the militia’s previous violent actions as a consequence of being isolated and highlighted the importance of Wagner’s training for integrating them into the national army.

The recent killing of a Kenyan peacekeeper in the Central African Republic highlights the ongoing instability faced by the nation due to armed militia activities. With government efforts aimed at bringing the perpetrators to justice, the role of external forces like the Wagner Group remains pivotal in addressing the conflict. Ultimately, vigilant and coordinated efforts are essential to secure peace and protect civilian lives in this resource-rich yet troubled nation.

Original Source: www.arabnews.com

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