More than 160 militia members surrender in eastern Congo, says army

More than 160 militia members surrender in eastern Congo, says army

Ex-combatants from various groups active in Kalehe territory

By James Tasamba

KIGALI, Rwanda (AA) - More than 160 militiamen from armed groups in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu province have recently surrendered following an awareness campaign by the army and the UN force, MONUSCO, the military said Friday.

The ex-combatants were active in Kalehe territory, according to the military.

“Following joint awareness campaigns conducted by Congolese army (FARDC) and MONUSCO, at least 162 militia members surrendered with several weapons between Dec. 10 and 15,” Lt. Col. Jean Louis Tshimwang, spokesman for the 33rd military region, told reporters.

They belonged to outfits such as Kirikicho, Nyatura and CNRD Machano, he said, adding that the ex-combatants are currently hosted by MONUSCO in Tushunguti.

Dozens of fighters have surrendered in the past but due to inadequate disarmament, demobilization and reintegration policies, many ended up returning to the bush.

But President Felix Tshisekedi in his State of the Nation address last week said to restore peace in the restive eastern Congo, his administration initiated the establishment of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Recovery and Stabilization Program to encourage combatants in armed groups to lay down their arms and reintegrate into the community.

The program is implemented with support from various partners including MONUSCO.

“But, as peace goes hand in hand with justice, I have instructed the government to implement restorative mechanisms, including that of transitional justice, for the benefit of the victims,” he said.


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