UN Secretary-General Urges Action Against Foreign Troops in DRC

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan expressed deep concern over the recent fighting in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and urged the Security Council to take action against foreign troops if they fail to withdraw. Annan told the 15-member panel in a written report that the situation in the DRC has become "particularly uncertain" and that the recent clashes in Kisangani have resulted in significant human suffering, including executions, torture, rape, and destruction of property.

Key Takeaways:

Annan has expressed his "indignation" at the recent fighting in Kisangani and is seeking to invoke Chapter VII of the UN Charter to enforce a resolution.
The peacekeepers designated to deploy in the Congo lack specialized units, are not armed sufficiently, and are not trained in the use of arms, following the humiliating experience in Sierra Leone where rebels overpowered and detained about 500 peacekeepers.
Annan is seeking additional help from member states for qualified troops and equipment to ensure the success of the UN Mission in the Congo (MONUC).
The council has authorized more than 5,000 peacekeepers for the Congo, but so far, only unarmed military observers have been dispatched.
The Political Committee meeting will allow all parties to re-evaluate the deteriorating situation in the DRC and for the Security Council to make it clear that their assurances of support for the peace process can no longer be taken at face value.

Statistics:

Over 5,000 peacekeepers have been authorized for the Congo.
So far, only unarmed military observers have been dispatched to the DRC.
Approximately 500 peacekeepers were detained by rebels in Sierra Leone.
The recent clashes in Kisangani have resulted in significant human suffering, including executions, torture, rape, and destruction of property.

Sources:

United Press International;
U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan's written report;
U.N. Security Council meeting minutes.