Kinshasa, DRC — Bintou Keita, the UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), has announced her resignation, effective before the end of 2025, earlier than her originally scheduled departure date of February 2026.
Keita’s early departure coincides with the strategic transition of the UN from its peacekeeping role in the DRC, as outlined in UN Security Council Resolution 2765, which set the final withdrawal date for MONUSCO for December 20, 2025. This transition period necessitates leadership changes and operational downsizing.
The search for Keita’s successor has been accelerated in diplomatic discussions in New York to ensure continuity and stability during the mission’s final phase. Potential candidates for the position include experienced UN diplomats with prior peacekeeping leadership in Africa, regional experts familiar with Congolese political dynamics and security challenges, and candidates with strong negotiation and transition management skills. Names such as Parfait Onanga-Anyanga, Hanna Tetteh, Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, and Mohamed Ibn Chambas have been mentioned as possible successors.
From December 1 to 28, 2025, Bruno Lemarquis, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, will serve as the interim leader. Vivian van de Perre, Deputy Special Representative for Protection, will take over starting the evening of December 28.
Keita’s resignation comes as the DRC faces complex security and political challenges, and her departure raises questions about the continuity of the UN’s efforts in the region. According to UN sources, her leadership has been marked by a focus on protecting civilians and promoting peace, but the transition to a post-MONUSCO presence will be crucial.
Interim arrangements and the search for a successor are critical for maintaining stability in the DRC during this pivotal period. The UN’s role in the country’s future will depend on the effectiveness of the transition and the ability of the new leadership to address ongoing challenges.
Source: Africa
