The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) on Friday held a memorial ceremony in honour of five peacekeepers who lost their lives after their convoy was attacked in the south-eastern part of the country earlier this week.
The ceremony was presided over by Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations, UN Mission in Colombia,on a special visit to the C.A.R.
Various government officials were present in the event,alongside the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head ofMINUSCA, Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General Najat Rochdi, and MINUSCA Force Commander Lt. Gen. Balla Keita.
The deadly 8 May attack on the MINUSCA convoy wasperpetrated by suspected anti-Balaka elements near the village of Yogofongo.
One Cambodian peacekeeper and eight anti-Balaka elements were killed in the ensuing gun-fight, with a number of injuries reported on both sides.
Three of the other four peacekeepers reported missing after the attack were found dead the following day, with the fourth found dead on Thursday.
Mr. Lacroix paid tribute to “the five soldiers serving under the UN flag and who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of peace,”emphasizing that “their sacrifice must not be forgotten and will not be in vain.” He saluted the courage of the 10 Cambodian and Moroccan peacekeepers injured in the attack and wished them a speedy recovery.
MINUSCA peacekeepers undertake a difficult and honourable endeavor. Their critical work protecting civilians, opening roadways and building bridges helps to bring unity to a divided country.
