During a recent UN Security Council session, the UK expressed its commitment to aiding Chad’s political transition while addressing the impacts of the Sudan conflict. Ambassador James Kariuki praised regional collaboration among special representatives and discussed ongoing efforts in Gabon towards peaceful elections. The UK also highlighted the need to uphold democratic principles in Chad’s emerging elections and expressed concerns about violence in Cameroon, urging regional cooperation against extremist threats.
At a recent UN Security Council meeting, UK Ambassador James Kariuki reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to support Chad’s political transition amidst the ongoing conflict in Sudan. He emphasized the critical role played by SRSG Abarry and his office, appreciating their coordinated efforts with counterparts in the region, including the special representatives of UNOWAS, MONUSCO, and MINUSCA, in addressing shared regional challenges.
Firstly, the UK commends the progress towards Gabon’s political transition and encourages UNOCA to continue its support as the country approaches presidential elections next year. A successful electoral process in 2025 is vital for Gabon to meet its citizens’ expectations. Secondly, the UK applauds the recent legislative, provincial, and local elections in Chad, which signify the culmination of the country’s political transition. The UK urged the government to adhere to the principles established during the Inclusive Sovereign National Dialogue while ensuring elections are transparent, pluralistic, and peaceful. The conclusion of this transition should serve as a stepping stone toward a robust democratic framework in Chad.
Furthermore, the UK expressed concern regarding the violence affecting civilians in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon and highlighted UNOCA’s potential to facilitate a Cameroonian-led dialogue and resolution to this conflict. There are also apprehensions regarding the persistent threat from Islamist extremist groups in Cameroon’s Far North region and the broader Lake Chad Basin. The UK advocates for enhanced multinational collaboration among regional states through the Multinational Joint Task Force, recognizing that joint efforts present the most effective means to combat these common threats.
The ongoing socio-political instability in regions such as Chad and Cameroon has raised significant international concern. The conflict in Sudan has compounded the challenges facing Chad as it navigates its political transition. The United Kingdom, through its representation at the UN, aims to support regional stability and democratic progress, emphasizing the need for cooperation among nations to address shared challenges, including violence fueled by extremist groups. The United Nations Office for Central Africa (UNOCA) plays a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and supporting elections and democratic processes across these fragile states.
The UK’s statement at the UN Security Council underscores a strong commitment to supporting political transitions and democratic processes in Chad and Gabon. By promoting peaceful elections and emphasizing regional cooperation, the UK aims to foster stability amidst ongoing conflicts and the rise in violence from extremism in Central Africa. The proactive stance taken by the UK highlights the need for unity in addressing shared threats and ensuring citizen-led governance.
Original Source: www.gov.uk
