Strict implementation of Lusaka Protocol asked: UNAVEM III mandate extended.

• Position: Third United Nations Angola Verification Mission - Angola

The third United Nations Angola Verification Mission (UNAVEM III) was extended until 8 February 1996 by the Security Council, which urged the Angolan Government and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) to "adhere strictly to the revised timetable on the implementation of the Lusaka Protocol and make concerted efforts to accelerate that process".

Under resolution 1008 (1995) of 7 August, the Council expressed "concern at the slow pace", while at the same time noting progress made so far in implementing the 20 November 1994 Lusaka Protocol, which reaffirms the validity of the 31 May 1991 Peace Accords, aimed at ending 20 years of civil conflict in Angola. A comprehensive agreement, the Protocol includes sections on the acceptance of relevant legal instruments, military issues, police, national reconciliation, completion of the electoral process and a timetable for implementation.

The Council also asked the two parties, in cooperation with UNAVEM III, to finalize arrangements for establishing quartering areas, complete troop disengagement and expedite demining.

Without further delay

The Government and UNITA should adopt without further delay a "comprehensive and workable programme" for the formation of the new armed forces, and accelerate the exchange of prisoners and the repatriation of mercenaries, "with a view to reinforcing the freedom of movement of people throughout the country", the Council said. The two parties should also put an "immediate and definitive end" to the renewed laying of mines and to reported unauthorized troop movements.

The Council called on the Government and UNITA to provide UNAVEM III with the necessary information and ensure freedom of movement, including full access to all military facilities, to enable it to effectively carry out its mandate.

Deployment of UN infantry units should continue and accelerate as conditions improve, and an increase in the strength of the Mission's human rights unit was also authorized. The disarmament of the civilian population should also begin without further delay.

The Council also wanted safe passage of humanitarian supplies throughout the country, and encouraged generous contributions to the humanitarian effort and provision of mine clearance, bridging and road repair equipment and materials, and other supplies necessary for setting up the quartering areas.

In debate, Afonso Van Dunem "Mbinda" of Angola said that by creating UNAVEM III in February 1995...