Gabon clears peacekeepers of sexual abuse charges in Central African Republic

By Aurore Bonny

DOUALA, Cameroon (AA) - Results of a preliminary investigation concerning sexual abuse allegations by UN peacekeepers in the Central African Republic were unveiled Thursday by the special adviser to the Gabonese presidency.

UN chief Antonio Guterres announced Sept. 15 that the entire Gabonese contingent of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) would be repatriated following the allegations by five girls.

"No witness has come forward to the commission of inquiry set up by Gabon, which is composed of officers who work in very close relationship with the UN and the Central African authorities, in conjunction with NGOs on the ground," said Jessye Ella Ekogha, who was quoted by the La Libreville media outlet.

He said the UN and teams on the ground were only able to present one person and "none of the accusations of sexual assault that have been made are founded."

The only person to come forward is a young woman in her twenties who had a consensual relationship with a peacekeeper, he said.

"From this consensual relationship, a young child was born. Today, this young lady is asking for help, a kind of alimony, so that she can raise this child. Investigations are underway to verify the paternity links," he said, according to LaLibreville.

But the UN statement on Sept. 15 said, "victims identified were immediately taken care of by partners according to their medical, psychosocial and protection needs.”​​​​​​​