Mr Kagame will need to provide clear evidence of a break with Mr Nkunda and a commitment to preventing Rwandan citizens from fighting in his militia.

ECONOMIST: Violence in Congo

But the intent of the founders was that the amendment protected the rights of citizens to bear arms in a militia for their collective self-defense.

CNN: Gun violence is a national security issue

Not only is Mr Uribe unapologetic, but plans to create a national militia of some one million citizens to help bring state presence to the half of the country under the control of the warring factions.

BBC: Profile: Alvaro Uribe Velez

Militia groups in Ivory Coast turned against French citizens 10 years ago when France was then seen as interfering in the country's affairs.

BBC: Is France under attack in Africa?

Images of innocent Darfurian civilians men, women, and children hounded from their homes by ravaging militia have triggered significant activism on the part of Americans and citizens around the world.

NPR: Sudan Sanctions: Too Little, Too Late?

All militia groups should lay down their weapons and recognize an inclusive military that protects all citizens under the authority of President Ouattara.

WHITEHOUSE: Statement by the President on Cote d'Ivoire