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Kerry Statement on Attack of Congolese Doctor

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator John Kerry, Chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, made the following statement today on the recent attack of Congolese doctor, Dr. Denis Mukwege.

“The Democratic Republic of Congo has seen far more than its share of violence.  A recent attack on a humanitarian underscores the consequences of the lawless violence that plagues eastern Congo in particular.  Dr. Denis Mukwege is the founder and medical director of Panzi Hospital, which receives support through USAID, and a champion for women and children who have suffered horrendous attacks.  Recently, armed men tried to kill him as well.  While their motives may be murky, one thing is crystal clear: the important work of the Panzi Hospital must go on and the attack on Dr. Mukwege should be investigated.  The attack on this dedicated physician that has forced him to flee the country is one more assault on the women and children who so desperately need his services.”

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