SITUATION REPORT FOR DRC - NOVEMBER 6, 2008,

UNCLAS KINSHASA 000983 SENSITIVE SIPDIS E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV PREL MOPS PHUM PREF KPKO CG SUBJECT: SITUATION REPORT FOR DRC - NOVEMBER 6, 2008, AS OF 5:30 PM CENTRAL AFRICAN TIME (GMT +1) ¶1. (U) All times Kinshasa (GMT + 1) unless otherwise indicated. ¶2. (U) The items contained in this situation report consist principally of spot information from various sources. This report is not exhaustive, nor can all the information contained therein be confirmed at this time. Security Situation in Goma and Surrounding Area -------------- -- ¶3. (SBU) USAID DART team leader reported that, according to information obtained at an OCHA security briefing on November 6, IDP's in Kibati are said to be fairly nervous, as they watch CNDP forces reposition just north of the town, and FARDC forces in town and south build up. OCHA has had little success in getting the IDP camps cleared of the FARDC presence. ¶4. (SBU) Reports are that many IDP's who tried to return to Kibumba from Kibati were turned around by the CNDP, which does not want another large camp there, but rather wants everyone to return to their home villages. They are said to be holding the electoral cards of people hostage to make sure they return home. Political Developments -------------- ¶5. (SBU) Tim Shortley, Senior Advisor to Assistant Secretary Frazer, met today with National Assembly President Vital Kamerhe (septel to provide full details). Kamerhe agreed on the need to normalize relations with Rwanda and said the government has already started on this, to include reestablishment of diplomatic relations within 45 days. ¶6. (SBU) Kamerhe also said that there should be discreet, direct political talks between Nkunda and the GDRC (level TBD),not simply military discussions, and conceded that the government needed to coordinate its message better on this issue. He emphasized it was important to revive Nairobi and, simultaneously, work towards establishment of "Goma II." ¶7. (SBU) Kamerhe noted that the population, rightfully, has lost confidence in the FARDC and that the government should consider rotating out certain commanders from North Kivu. BROCK