UN rights chief warns of deteriorating situation in DRC

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein on Thursday issued a strong statement warning about the deteriorating situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

He stressed that as part of the effort to avert a major crisis, there must be accountability for the killing of dozens of civilians and other human rights violations that took place during the outbreak of violence earlier this week.

At least 50 people, including at least four police officers, were reportedly killed during clashes and violence in the capital Kinshasa on Sept. 19 and 20, and at least 77 others were injured.

"The high number of civilian casualties, the burning of the headquarters of several political parties, and continuing high tension provide a stark warning that a large-scale crisis could be just around the corner," the UN rights chief said.

"The writing is on the wall, and the authorities need to pull back from their extremely confrontational position and build bridges with the opposition," he added.

The UN official said in the statement that he was particularly shocked at reports that some men in uniform took a direct part in some of the attacks against the headquarters of six opposition political parties.

"This is a clear assault against democracy and fundamental human rights. What DRC needs now is a climate more conducive to inclusive dialogue and to free and fair elections," he added.

Earlier on Wednesday, the UN Security Council also called on all the political parties in DRC to "refrain from further violence or other provocations and to address their differences peacefully." Endit