UN Security Council hails holding of forum on reconciliation in CAR

The UN Security Council on Friday welcomed the holding of the National Forum on reconciliation in the Central African Republic (CAR), calling upon the Transitional Authorities, with the support of the United Nations and the international community, "to implement the Forum's recommendations without delay."

"The members of the Security Council welcomed the holding in Bangui, from 4 to 11 May 2015, of the National Forum on reconciliation, and the inclusive grassroots level consultations that gathered views of local citizens in advance," the 15-nation council said in a press statement issued here. "They welcomed the inclusive and comprehensive manner in which this Forum was held, in particular by ensuring the full effective and equal participation of women."

The Bangui Forum is the result of a historic and inclusive process that amplified the voices of local representatives, women, youth, and civil society.

The council members commended the adoption of the Republican Pact for Peace, National Reconciliation and Reconstruction including commitments for a swift presidential and legislative electoral process, decentralization and a reinforced judiciary, according to the statement.

The council members also praised the signature of an agreement on the principles for disarmament, demobilization and reintegration, as well as an agreement by which armed groups committed to end the recruitment of child soldiers and liberate all children associated with the conflict from their ranks. They also welcomed the release of more than 300 children.

"The members of the Security Council congratulated the people of the Central African Republic, the Transitional Authorities, and the armed groups who participated as signatories of these critical agreements," the statement said. "They called on all armed groups to follow through on these commitments without delay."

On Monday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon welcomed the adoption of a peace pact at the Bangui National Forum, saying it showed the aspirations of the people of the CAR to put conflict behind them.

A transitional government is currently in place charged with organizing elections and restoring democratic rule.

The CAR has been mired in chaos since March 2013 when the predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power, sparking reprisals by Christian militia.