UN mission clouded by controversy

Controversy still surrounds the deployment of members of the UN observer mission, MONUC, to parts of the DRC. DRC Interior Minister Gaetan Kakudji this week authorised MONUC to visit the rebel-held areas of Goma, Bukavu, Kisangani, Gbadolite, Lisala, Pepa, Isiro, Kabalo, Bunia, Pweto, Bumba, Kalemie, Moba, Kongolo and Kindu. However, according to a report on state television, the mission is “formally banned” from going to the government-held areas of Mbandaka, Mbuji-Mayi, Lubumbashi, Kananga, Matadi and Kamina. Two UN military liaison officers reportedly arrived in Goma in Thursday. MONUC officials say they are still awaiting security guarantees from the DRC authorities for free movement around the country.