The Voice of Peace: Grassroots news and opinions on the LRA conflict - October-December 2014

Ongwen captured but power struggles overshadow LRA conflict

The year has begun with the news of Dominic Ongwen’s surrender. This is a major step towards the end of the notorious Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA).

However, the region is still facing grave security and political challenges, including the still active LRA. This edition of Voice of Peace exposes the troubling reality of the region.

Our lead article explains how the many armed factions in the Central African Republic (CAR) have been pursuing alternative paths to power in the lead-up to the elections. Some have set up political parties, others an NGO. But on the ground the reality is still dangerous and volatile.

However, there are some inspiring stories about how civil society groups are stepping up and playing their part for peace. In the DRC and South Sudan, Local Peace Committees have been set up to quickly alert security forces of imminent threats, resolve local conflicts and help citizens hold the authorities to account. 

Contents:

• Regional Security Review, Oct-Dec 2014
• Local Peace Committees play their part
• The story of a child transit centre
• Spotlight on the Kafia Kingi-Vakaga corridor
• About the Voice of Peace