May 4, 1998
The number of flights violating the UN sanctions on UNITA have
dropped significantly, according to the Chair of the UN
Sanctions Committee, Kenyan Ambassador Njuguna Mahugu. A
report prepared by the diplomat following his visit to the
area from 21 to 29 March, said that whilst there were at least
186 such flights to UNITA last December, most of them from
South Africa, there were only about 40 flights in the
January-February period.
In his report to the Security Council, Kofi Annan said there were few aircraft landing in Andulo and Bailundo in March. However, he conceded that UNITA may be diverting flights to airstrips not monitored by the UN.
Sources in the Ivory Coast have stated that in April a UN delegation led by Mahugu, held private talks with Ivorian Presidential Affairs Minister Faustin Kouame to complain about the country helping UNITA to circumvent international sanctions. Among the complaints raised is the issuing of Ivory Coast passports to UNITA officials. Those benefiting include the UNITA representative in Britain, Mr Kandeya, who has applied to the Home Office for leave to remain in the country, and is awaiting their decision.
