Kinshasa 19th September 2016 – MONUSCO expresses its deep concern about the violent clashes between protestors and security forces in Kinshasa and several other locations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and regrets the loss of life which has occurred. The Special Representative of the Secretary General Maman Sambo Sidikou condemns the violence that has already led to the death of at least 17 people, including three police officers, and calls on all actors to exercise maximum restraint.

“I call on the Congolese authorities to ensure that national security forces respect fundamental freedoms, and for the use of non-lethal force in crowd control in their response to protests. I also call on all concerned political leaders and their supporters to desist from undertaking any further acts that could continue to exacerbate the situation and heighten tensions” said Mr Sidikou.

MONUSCO emphasizes the need for a full investigation and accountability for the events which unfolded today,  while urging all political leaders to address their differences peacefully and through dialogue, in line with Security Council Resolution 2277 (2016).

Note to the Editors

• MONUSCO is monitoring the situation in Kinshasa and across DRC
• The spokesman for the Secretary-General issued on Monday a statement on violent clashes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
• MONUSCO has a mandate to monitor and report on Human right Violation and violence committed by all parties, including non-State actors.