MONUC Information Note

Kinshasa, 30 March 2009: Since the end of the joint DRC / Rwanda military operation, MONUC has continued its sensitization efforts for the combatants of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). These efforts already made it possible for MONUC, through its Disarmament, Demobilisation, Repatriation, Resettlement and Reintegration (DDRRR) programme, to repatriate 640 war veterans and 914 dependents, from 1 January to 24 March 2009.

Last weekend following a campaign carried out by MONUC's DDRRR section in Walikale territory, a senior FDLR officer and three other officers, as well as15 combatants and their dependents decided to enter the process of voluntary repatriation to Rwanda.

"It's very a good decision. In choosing to lay down their weapons, these people choose a better future. The outlaw life in the bush will not lead to anything good," said Alan Doss, Special representative of the UN Secretary General in the DRC.

Ross Mountain, Deputy Special Representative of the UN Secretary General in the DRC launched a call from Goma to the other FDLR combatants still in the bush.

"Do not wait much longer. MONUC will help you to return to Rwanda in dignity. Think initially of your wives and your children. They will thank you tomorrow for having had the courage to avoid misery and death," he said.

MONUC reception camps are always open and its teams are ready to receive the volunteers to allow them to return to their country in dignity.