FDLR OFFICER SURRENDERS TO DDRRR IN NORTH KIVU

UNCLAS KINSHASA 001079 SIPDIS SENSITIVE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV PREL KPKO CG SUBJECT: FDLR OFFICER SURRENDERS TO DDRRR IN NORTH KIVU ¶1. (SBU) According to MONUC Eastern Division internal reporting, the FDLR Auditeur Superior Militaire based in Walikale, North Kivu surrendered to MONUC on June 24. While he warned MONUC not to expect mass repatriation in his wake, he did encourage continued sensitization efforts via radio, leaflets, and even phone calls, as he was sensitized to DDRRR in this way. The unnamed officer said that FDLR leadership hold over the FDLR cadres remains the largest stumbling block in the DDRRR process. He identified individuals among the FDLR leadership as "real spoilers" -- Major General Mwachimura Sylvestre (FOCA Commander),his deputy Brigadier-General Kanyandekwaa (Matombo),the Permanent Secretary Nobaha Jean (Rwanyonga),the southern and northern SIPDIS Commanders Bertin (Kagoma) and Omega, respectively, and Battalion Commanders Musahre and Makoto. ¶2. (SBU) The officer also confirmed a letter previously received by MONUC that the FDLR has no intention to disturb the elections. He said that many FDLR militia have Congolese voter registration cards which they have purchased for 5-10 USD (Note: Vender unknown. End note.). However, he said, the militia did not acquire them to vote illegally and have no plans to do so. Instead, they use the voter cards as identification when traveling to markets. ¶3. (SBU) Comment: Although any FDLR defections are encouraging, the continued recalcitrance of the militia leadership prevents them from becoming widespread. End comment. MEECE