The Under Secretary General of the United Nations in charge of Peacekeeping Operations, Herve Ladsous, has announced the establishment of a “weapons-free zone” in Bambari effective today, September 8, 2015, from 17:00 local time.

The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) “took the decision to establish a weapons-free zone in Bambari to ensure the free movement and physical integrity of the civilian population, as well as access by humanitarian workers to vulnerable populations” he said.

The decision follows a call on Mr. Ladsous by the population of Bambari, on 6th September, for further protection against armed groups, without exception, who operate in the region.

“MINUSCA welcomes the commitment of the armed groups to respect this measure as a concrete way to improve the security of the population of Bambari, create conducive conditions for the return of displaced persons, and allow the start of voter registration in Bambari due to start on September 14”, said Mr. Ladsous. MINUSCA will oversee the implementation of this measure.

The Under Secretary General of the United Nations in charge of Peacekeeping Operations, ended his four day visit to Central African Republic on 8th September.

The objective was to reiterate the support of the United Nations on the eve of the general elections scheduled for October 2015.