Uhuru Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in East Democratic Republic of Congo

By Samuel Ouma

Retired Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has condemned the recent escalation of violence in the East Democratic of Congo (DRC).

In a statement, Kenyatta, the Facilitator of the EAC-led Nairobi Process for the Restoration of Peace and Stability in Eastern DRC, called for an immediate ceasefire in the Central African country.

He stated that the truce will allow unrestricted and continuous humanitarian access and an opportunity for peace and the pursuit of a non-military solution to the problem.

“The Facilitator appeals to all parties engaged in such acts to immediately cease their armed offensives and hostilities, so as to allow continued unhindered and sustained humanitarian access and to give a chance to a return to peace and the pursuit of a non-military solution to the crisis in the region through the EAC Led Nairobi Peace Process,” read the statement.

Since October 1, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has seen increased fighting, putting many civilians in danger.

Reports indicate that the conflict has claimed 20 civilians' lives, and 30 others were wounded.

Also, about 85000 people were displaced, increasing the number of those who have been displaced since violence erupted in the country to more than 2 million.