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106 results found
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Central African Republic
| 1 May 2013
Security significantly deteriorated in Bangui following 24 March coup by rebel group Seleka toppling Bozizé regime as capital experienced bank robberies, killings, and systematic looting of private houses and ministries; at least 130 people reportedly killed by Seleka in Bangui since coup. Regional leaders 3 April met in Chad, called for new transitional body to be established and elections to be held within 18 months. South Africa withdrew troops from CAR. Seleka leader Michel Djotodia elected interim president 13 April by new national transitional council. Regional summit in N’Djamena 18 April recognised Djotodia as transitional head of govt, re-launched Libreville agreement steering committee, and resolved to quadruple regional peacekeeping force in CAR to 2,000 troops. PM Tiangaye late April visited Brussels, Paris and Pretoria in effort to raise funds, end CAR isolation and rebuild diplomatic contacts; South African president Zuma 29 April said South Africa supports transitional govt.
Central African Republic
| 1 Apr 2013
Seleka rebel coalition 24 March seized capital Bangui and overthrew President Bozizé’s regime, following repeated violations of ceasefire throughout month; Bangui remains tense with fears factions of fragmented Seleka coalition could decide to continue armed struggle. Rebels 18 March detained 5 Seleka leaders acting as ministers in new cabinet. As rebels advanced on Bangui, 13 South African soldiers reinforcing CAR troops in Bangui reportedly killed; South African President Zuma said troops to remain in CAR, would possibly be reinforced; France deployed 300 additional troops to secure airport, protect French citizens. Reported govt helicopter attack killed several regional peacekeepers 23 March. President Bozizé fled to Cameroon; widespread looting reported across Bangui in wake of coup. Seleka statement 24 March said PM, power-sharing govt would remain in place and Jan Libreville agreement would be respected; rebel leader Michel Djotodia 25 March proclaimed himself president, suspended constitution and National Assembly, announced he would rule by decree, 30 March said he would preside over 3-year transition; army chiefs 28 March pledged allegiance to Djotodia. Djotodia 31 March named new caretaker govt comprised of rebels and opposition; appointed himself as defence minister. AU suspended CAR 25 March, imposed sanctions on leaders of Seleka; U.S. 30 March condemned seizure of power. UNSC 25 March called for humanitarian access, parties to refrain from violence against civilians; Red Cross 30 March said some 78 bodies found in streets since rebel takeover.
Central African Republic
| 1 Mar 2013
New transitional govt sworn in 3 Feb following several days of negotiations: strategic foreign, justice and security ministries remain under control of President Bozizé ’s party; Seleka rebel group leader Michel Djotodia named defence minister. Rebels 25 Feb threatened to resume fighting if Bozizé fails to implement Jan Libreville peace agreement. NGOs, UN mid-month reported ongoing violence, displacement in areas under Seleka control including Bambari town and Mobaye, from which some 10,000 reportedly fled 7-13 Feb. Confinement of rebels to barracks scheduled to begin 24 Feb delayed due to logistics, dissent within Seleka. Bozizé 14 Feb met with Chad President Deby on sidelines of Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) summit (see Chad), discussed security in CAR.
Central African Republic
| 1 Feb 2013
Seleka rebel movement and President Bozizé 11 Jan agreed to ceasefire, formation of unity govt and legislative elections within 1 year at Libreville peace talks that began 9 Jan; Bozizé 17 Jan named Nicolas Tiangaye, leader of Republican Convention for Social Progress, as new PM until 2016, following his nomination by democratic opposition. Bozizé same day proposed ministerial redistribution: Seleka rebels and democratic opposition given 5 positions each, civil society and other politico-military groups 4 each, 12 positions awarded to presidential majority. PM Tiangaye late Jan denounced attacks committed by Seleka elements in Kembe and Dimbi; Seleka’s spokesperson said perpetrators will be sanctioned. UNSC 24 Jan welcomed ceasefire, extended peacekeeping mandate to 31 Jan 2014.
Central African Republic
| 30 Dec 2012
Resurgence of rebel activity in north under new Seleka coalition early Dec threatened Bozizé regime. Rebels made swift gains in north and east: 11 Dec captured Ndele town, 18 Dec seized central mining town Bria, 29 Dec seized Sibut, 114 miles from capital Bangui; rebels currently control approximately a third of country. Estimated 400 Chadian soldiers deployed 18 Dec in Sibut and Damara cities to contain rebels, prevent fall of Bangui. Rebels 26 Dec called on troops to stand down, said did not intend to march on capital, but later warned they may enter Bangui, despite 28 Dec agreeing to talks with govt starting early Jan. Regional presidents 21 Dec met with President Bozizé, called for deployment of regional peacekeepers, negotiations under aegis of regional organisation (ECCAS); ECCAS 29 Dec announced deployment of additional troops. AU chair Boni set to discuss crisis with Bozizé end-month. UN late month began evacuation of staff, U.S. evacuated embassy and urged citizens to leave. Bozizé 27 Dec appealed for U.S., French intervention. Hundreds late Dec demonstrated, stoned French embassy, criticised France for failing to intervene; French president Hollande said French military will protect embassy and French citizens, will not interfere in domestic affairs.
Central African Republic
| 1 Dec 2012
Abuses by armed groups near Kabo town in north throughout month, and 27 Nov fights between CAR army and rebels in which several soldiers killed, confirmed nascent rebellion. Ouaka governor shot, seriously wounded 24 Nov near Sibut by unidentified men; disarmament process in NE remains stalled. Faction of UFDR threatened attack on Ndele, NE. Policeman, 2 others killed 13 Nov in attack by armed men in Libi, north of Bangui.
Central African Republic
| 1 Nov 2012
Public prosecutor 18 Oct said 3 arrested, charged with planning coup. Authorities began repatriating Popular Front for Recovery (FPR) rebels to Chad early Oct. 2 Chinese road workers abducted late Sept by unidentified rebels on Garoua Boulai-Bouar road released.
Central African Republic
| 1 Oct 2012
LRA rebels reportedly kidnapped 55 in 1 Sept raid on 2 villages in east; govt soldier killed 10 Sept in ambush in SE. Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) faction claimed responsibility for 15 Sept attacks on Damara, Sibut, Dekoa towns, said faction does not recognise peace accords signed by CPJP leader, threatened further attacks; army 19 Sept killed faction leader Hassan al-Habib. Chadian Popular Front for Recovery (FPR) rebel chief Baba Laddé 2 Sept surrendered, extradited to Chad 5 Sept; govt 11 Sept established committee for repatriation of FPR rebels to Chad. Govt, opposition, civil society 13 Sept agreed to formation of National Elections Authority to replace much-criticised Independent Electoral Commission.
Central African Republic
| 1 Sep 2012
CPJP rebel group 25 Aug signed peace deal with govt. Violent protests erupted after 2 Aug release of Armed Forces recruitment results; angry youths attacked Ngaraba central prison, freed all inmates. British safari employee, accused of killing 13, released 27 Aug after 5 months.
Central African Republic
| 1 Aug 2012
Justice Minister, Chief of Staff, police Director General dismissed in post coup-attempt purge. LRA reportedly proved responsible for March, June attacks in Bakouma region; latest attacks suggest group moving west.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jul 2012
Finance Minister and nephew of President Bozizé, Sylvan Ndoutinga, accused of involvement in coup plot, dismissed 1 June. Unidentified armed men mid-June occupied village near Markounda in NW, tried to recruit local youths. Unidentified armed men 24 June raided site of French uranium mining company Areva at Bakouma, SE.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jun 2012
Disarmament recommenced 12 May in centre north: People’s Army for Restoration of Democracy (APRD) rebel group officially dissolved 17 May. President Bozizé 15 May invited political parties, rebel representatives, civil society, diplomats to presidential palace; Bozizé delivered speech but no dialogue held. 2 villages burned, 5 killed 20-23 May near Batangafo, centre north; regional lawmaker blamed Chadian cattle herders and rebel Front Populaire pour le Redressement (FPR). Ugandan army 12 May captured LRA commander Caesar Acellam in SE.
Central African Republic
| 1 May 2012
Jean-Jacques Demafouth, rebel People’s Army for the Restoration of Democracy (APRD) leader and DDR steering committee VP, and 2 Union for Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) opposition leaders freed 11 April following 3-month detention. 11 CAR soldiers, part of CAR-Chad-Sudan border guard, killed 17 April in border region raid by S Sudan.
Central African Republic
| 1 Apr 2012
PM Touadéra 19 March headed delegation to Khartoum, discussed military cooperation, bilateral relations. EU 7 March pledged €14mn to MICOPAX peacekeeping mission. Security in centre-north remained fragile following Feb offensive against Chadian FPR rebels. LRA attacks in SE increased early March after period of calm; UN Special Envoy for Central Africa Abou Moussa 23 March said LRA leader Joseph Kony believed to be in CAR; AU 24 March launched regional taskforce to tackle LRA.
Central African Republic
| 1 Mar 2012
Amid dire humanitarian fallout, sporadic skirmishes, retaliatory raids continue centre-north after late-Jan offensive by joint CAR-Chad forces against Chadian rebel group Popular Front for Recovery (FPR). Baba Laddé, FPR leader, still at large. Rebel Popular Army for the Restoration of Democracy (APRD) leader and DDR steering committee vice-president Jean-Jacques Demafouth, charged 15 Feb with attempting to destabilise state, remains in prison.
Central African Republic
| 1 Feb 2012
Police 6 Jan arrested People’s Army for the Restoration of Democracy (APRD) leader and vice president of the DDR steering committee Jean-Jacques Demafouth, accused of planning to form coalition comprising APRD and 3 NE rebel groups - Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP), Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) and Movement of Centrafrican Liberators for Justice (MLCJ); 3 UFDR members also arrested; APRD 12 Jan withdrew from peace process in protest. Members of diplomatic community including UN Peacebuilding Office (BINUCA) head 16 Jan visited Demafouth in prison. Le Démocratie newspaper editor Ferdinand Samba convicted 27 Jan for incitement to hatred, defamation and insult over articles criticising finance minister, alleging embezzlement. CAR, Chadian armies 23 Jan launched joint offensive in North Central against Chadian rebel group Popular Front for the Union (FPR).
Central African Republic
| 2 Jan 2012
UNSC 21 Dec extended peacebuilding office (BINUCA) mandate to Jan 2013; head of BINUCA 14 Dec warned lack of funding for demobilisation could undermine peace efforts.
Central African Republic
| 1 Nov 2011
Rebel groups Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) and Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) 8 Oct signed ceasefire, ending Sept violence centred in diamond mining hub Bria; agreed to cease hostilities, withdraw from Bria, stay within strongholds. CPJP agreed to join national peace process; spokesman 17 Oct said forces had withdrawn 65km from Bria, asked for aid for Bria residents and displaced people.
Central African Republic
| 1 Oct 2011
Fighting between rebel groups in East rose sharply; series of deadly clashes between Rungadominated Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) and Gula-dominated Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR). Clash 11-14 Sept in central town Bria, diamond mining hub, left at least 43 dead. CPJP 24 Sept ambushed vehicle carrying UFDR rebels, civilians near Bria, killing at least 6 including local official. Tensions remain high. Interior Minister met leaders of both groups late Sept, secured assurances they would negotiate end of hostilities. LRA mid Sept attacked several villages near Bangassou in SE.
“Central African Republic diamond war dead reaches 43”, AFP, 23 Sept. 2011.
Central African Republic
| 1 Sep 2011
Ethnic tensions rose despite June peace deal with Convention of Patriots for Justice (CPJP) rebel group: clashes early Aug between Runga, leading tribe of the CPJP rebels, and Gula, dominant tribe in UFDR, in previously calm Bria town. Several people reported injured in machete attack. CPJP leader Mahamat Salle 27 Aug signed peace agreement with govt.
Central African Republic
| 1 Aug 2011
Following June ceasefire between govt and core of rebel Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP), faction leader Mahamat Sallé also signed peace deal 17 July. Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) rebels sacked mobile phone installation in NE Sam Ouandja, prevented planes landing 18 July in protest at rival CPJP blocking road south. Suspected LRA fighters 16 July shot dead merchant near Guerekindo village.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jul 2011
11 killed, dozens injured early month in Bangui in continued violence directed at Muslims. LRA fighters 7 June killed doctor, driver in ambush in Haut-Mbomou region; medical workers 10 June staged protest in Bangui demanding greater protection. Govt and rebel Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) 12 June signed ceasefire, agreed to talks on peace deal. President Bozizé 25 June launched operation to disarm 350 former Popular Army for the Restoration of Democracy rebels in NW town Bocaranga.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jun 2011
Following rigged Jan elections, head of EU delegation 6 May met President Bozizé, requested more formal political dialogue, applying article 8 of Cotonou agreement. Security in NE precarious. Unidentified armed men 3 May ambushed NGO vehicle on road to Ndiffa. Suspected Sudanese, Chadian bandits attacked NGO compounds in Birao 22 May, Ndélé 24 May. Relations between govt and UFDR former rebels strained over lack of govt support in fighting rebel Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP), replacement of UFDR minister. CPJP set to meet mediation team end-month. Presidents Bozizé, Deby (Chad) and Bashir (Sudan) 23 May agreed joint border patrols. LRA 3 May attacked SE village Balifondo; several villagers killed, others abducted; 7 May fired on NGO vehicle on Zemio-Mboki road. Curfew imposed in 3 districts of capital Bangui after at least 2 people reported killed, several injured 31 May in violence directed at Muslims.
Central African Republic
| 1 May 2011
PM Touadera 22 Apr named new govt comprising 2 ministers from opposition disowned by party. Following end March ethnic fighting, army and govt-allied Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) 10 Apr clashed with rebel Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) in northern town Sikikédé; 27 reported killed. Former president and runner-up in Jan presidential poll Ange Félix Patassé died 5 Apr in hospital in Douala.
Central African Republic
| 1 Apr 2011
President Bozizé inaugurated 15 March after re-election in Jan poll. Opposition continued to refute outcome of presidential, legislative elections. Despite opposition boycott threats, voting took place 27 March in second round legislative poll; opposition claimed turnout low. Military sources said at least 6 killed, dozens injured, some 100 taken hostage during 13 March LRA attacks in mining town of Nzako. Rebel Convention de patriotes pour la justice et la paix (CPJP) 21 March reportedly attacked 2 villages near Ndélé, north east; 7 killed, 150 houses burned.
“Central African Republic chooses new parliament”, AFP, 27 March 2011.
For latest report, see Crisis Group Africa Report N°167, Dangerous Little Stones: Diamonds in the Central African Republic, 16 Dec. 2010.
Central African Republic
| 1 Mar 2011
Electoral Commission 1 Feb announced preliminary results showing incumbent President Bozize re-elected 23 Jan, winning 66% of vote. Constitutional Court 12 Feb overruled opposition objections, confirmed result; opposition 26 Feb announced boycott of 20 March second round legislative elections in protest. Clashes early Feb between Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) rebels and army near Bria in east left 7 dead. Army 14-15 Feb withdrew from Birao in northeast, having provided security in area since Nov 2010 CPJP attack.
Central African Republic
| 1 Feb 2011
First round presidential, legislative elections took place 23 Jan without major incident. Ahead of vote President Bozizé 13 Jan appointed 6 rebel leaders as disarmament advisers. No opposition boycott despite memo signed 4 Jan by 4 of 5 presidential candidates alleging biased election commission CEMI, violations of electoral code and lack of freedom of movement due to presence of armed groups. Ahead of official announcement of results 3 candidates 25 Jan declared rejection of results, demanded presidential vote be annulled. International observers reported process acceptable despite organisational problems, minor irregularities. Opposition commissioners on CEMI resigned 27 Jan denouncing irregularities.
Central African Republic
| 3 Jan 2011
Month saw laborious progress in preparations for 23 Jan 2011 presidential and legislative elections; UN SRSG Sahle Work-Zewde 9 Dec told UNSC all major remaining political obstacles have been lifted, emphasized fair process crucial for restoring stability. As MINURCAT entered final phase of troop drawdown and withdrawal from Chad and CAR, UNSC 14 Dec extended UN integrated peacebuilding office (BINUCA) mandate for further 12 months until 31 Dec 2011. Govt early Dec confirmed 71 killed including 65 rebels during Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) late-Nov attack on Birao town. Sudanese President Bashir cancelled plans to attend 1 Dec celebrations marking fiftieth Independence anniversary, reportedly due to CAR’s status as Rome Statue signatory and International Criminal Court indictment against him. LRA 18-19 Dec reportedly attacked Zumaro village, Western Equatoria; 2 killed, more than 50 abducted.
Central African Republic
| 1 Dec 2010
Rebel Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) 24 Nov attacked Birao, key town in NE Vakaga prefecture, forcing govt troops to retreat; at least 4 soldiers, 2 civilians killed. Rebels occupied town as well as nearby airbase formerly controlled by MINURCAT until mission’s 9 Nov withdrawal from area. Supporting CAR govt, Chad 25 Nov conducted airstrikes in area surrounding Birao. Govt 26 Nov claimed army had retaken town, CPJP 30 Nov said Chadian troops forced rebels to evacuate. Election commission (CEI) Oct brought forward to 8 Nov deadline for candidate applications for 23 Jan 2011 presidential election, 4 candidates applied in time, including incumbent President Bozizé and former president Ange-Felix Patassé. After opposition protest, Bozizé asked CEI to reopen process; CEI 18 Nov accepted candidacies of main opposition MLPC leader Martin Ziguélé and RDC’s Raymond Nakombo. International Criminal Court (ICC) 22 Nov commenced trial of Jean-Pierre Bemba, former Congolese VP and leader of rebel group turned political party Movement for the Liberation of Congo (MLC), charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes for alleged failure to prevent his forces’ violence against civilians 2002-2003 during Bozizé rebellion against Patassé.
Central African Republic
| 1 Nov 2010
Voter registration for 23 Jan 2011 presidential election continued beyond scheduled 21 Oct end date; opposition 26 Oct rejected electoral commission president’s unilateral change to timetable. Reports emerged 30 Oct claiming rebel Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) 29 Oct abducted 21 election commission officials near Birao. Low intensity rebel/bandit insecurity persisted throughout month: army 4 Oct pushed CPJP rebels from Yalinga, E Haute-Kotto; rebels 16 Oct attacked Ippy, Ouaka; insecurity continued near Bria, Haute-Kotto. Ugandan LRA fighters continued attacks in NE and SE, including 10 Oct abduction of at least 5 girls from Birao. 5 killed in 6 Oct clash between LRA and Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) allied to govt. UNHCR 15 Oct stated LRA’s “campaign of terror” against civilians intensified since Sept causing new displacement. At 13-15 Oct AU meeting in Bangui 4 LRA-affected countries agreed to form joint military force to pursue LRA and appoint AU special envoy for LRA issues. International Criminal Court appeals panel 19 Oct rejected former Congolese rebel leader and DRC VP Jean-Pierre Bemba’s bid to have charges against him dismissed; Bemba’s trial, for crimes committed in CAR 2002-2003 by his Movement for the Liberation of Congo, to start 22 Nov.
Central African Republic
| 1 Oct 2010
Preparations ongoing for Jan 2011 presidential, parliamentary elections; voter registration began slowly 22 Sept. UNSG Ban 20 Sept called on regional, international partners to provide aid to consolidate fragile peace gains, prevent resumption of conflict. Convention of Patriots for Justice and Peace (CPJP) rebels mid month took control of Yalinga, E Haute-Kotto. Ugandan LRA carried out several attacks early, late month on villages in north east; attacks included burning estimated 100 houses in Ouanda Djalle. Former rebel Union of Democratic Forces for Unity (UFDR) - authorised by govt since 2007 to secure specified zone - FACA and self-defence groups fell into LRA ambush 11 Sept; 2 UFDR killed, 7 wounded.
Central African Republic
| 1 Sep 2010
Central African Republic President Bozizé 30 July postponed first round of presidential election due to insecurity and lack of funding from international community. Opposition parties and former rebel groups 11 Aug formally approved new date, 23 Jan 2011, with second round in March; international donors claim timeframe unrealistic, question long gap between first and second rounds. UNSC consultations on MINURCAT 10 Aug: FM Antoine Gambi warned MINURCAT withdrawal would have harmful consequences; SG Ban noted earlier request from President Bozizé to assist with strengthening security forces, recommended UN focus on helping build state security capacity. CPJP claimed responsibility for 30 Aug attack on army base, SE Mbomou. Human Rights Watch 11 Aug released report detailing ongoing LRA atrocities in CAR and DRC (see Uganda). Defence minister Jean-Francis Bozizé 18 Aug pledged to capture LRA leader Joseph Kony with help from Uganda, U.S and France. U.S. deployed 19 soldiers to Obo, SE, France pledged technical assistance for army.
Central African Republic
| 1 Aug 2010
CPJP rebels and MLCJ dissidents attacked Birao in NE 19 July; targeted army base, looted NGO compound. Army says 13 attackers, 1 soldier killed. Poachers killed 6 presidential guards in ambush 8-9 July near Bassangoa. UNDP 13 July began verification of ex-combatant lists for DDR in north west. Visiting CAR 9-10 July, UN Rep for IDPs Kaelin said return of 200,000 IDPs vital to peace. LRA attacked Madabazouma village in SE 4 July, killed 5, kidnapped 7. President Bozize ended election calendar uncertainty in 30 July decree scheduling presidential and parliamentary elections for 23 January 2011.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jul 2010
President Bozizé remained in office after late May mandate extension. In 10 June address Bozizé rejected calls for unity govt until polls; said committed to prompt elections, blamed postponements on opposition and international community. Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) 17 June proposed 24 Oct for first round of presidential and legislative elections. Bozizé yet to endorse new date by decree. Opposition leader Ziguélé said ready to participate in Oct vote if major obstacles including rebel disarmament, technical problems overcome. Local firm contracted to review voter roll reportedly held back lists 13 June demanding IEC settle outstanding payments. UNSC 28 June called for realistic elections schedule, stressed importance of DDR process. After early month skirmishes with army, rebel group CPJP 2 June announced intention to negotiate with govt.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jun 2010
Constitutional Court 28 May validated constitutional amendment allowing extension of president’s mandate, adopted 10 May by parliament; amendment allows only PM, appointed by president, to request mandate extension; though criticised by opposition, only 6 of 27 opposition members voted against bill. Head of MPLC (opposition) Martin Ziguélé 8 May prevented from leaving country amid opposition calls for political deal instead of constitutional change. Police reported 50,000 marched 19 May in support of President Bozizé in capital. Presidential guards 20 May reportedly forced way into home of presidential candidate and ex-Minister of Regional Development Marie Reine Hassen; Hassen left minister post 2009 after death threats. Numerous LRA attacks in region (see Uganda).
Central African Republic
| 1 May 2010
President Bozizé 29 Apr announced postponement of elections without naming new date; opposition parties UFVN, MLPC, RDC, CFC 7 Apr had announced boycott unless delay to ensure completion of DDR, revision of voter lists; CFC suggested Jan 2011, said prepared to accept extension of Bozizé’s mandate. Bozizé and predecessor Patassé, currently only presidential candidates, 9 Apr reached “consensus” on elections; Patassé reportedly agreed to mediate with other parties. Electoral commission 14 Apr began revision of electoral lists; access hindered in many regions by armed groups, including APRD rebels. French declarations advising not to delay elections and giving implicit support to Bozizé criticised by local and French opposition parties. CPJP rebels 2-3 Apr occupied Ndélé (N East), demanded negotiations with govt and inquiry into death of leader Charles Massi. OCHA 29 Apr reported 400 fled to DRC after recent LRA attacks.
Central African Republic
| 1 Apr 2010
President Bozizé 27 March accepted postponement of elections planned for 25 Apr, asked electoral commission (IEC) to set new date and 30 March decreed elections would take place 16 May. Followed increased international pressure for delay: UN, U.S., EU, French representatives in Bangui 17 March said Apr elections could not meet international standards, called for postponement and greater transparency in IEC. President Bozizé confirmed candidacy 15 March; IEC opened voter registration next day. Security minister 13 March said govt had averted plot to overthrow Bozizé, hinted at ex-president Patassé’s involvement; Patassé strongly denied. After Feb hiatus, DDR campaign resumed following negotiations between govt and APRD armed group. 20 killed in 19 March clashes between Chadian herdsmen and local farmers in Batangafo. Suspected LRA attacks continued in south east: reports at least 25 killed and 40 abducted in 3 attacks from 20 March.
Central African Republic
| 1 Mar 2010
| President Bozizé 25 Feb announced legislative and presidential elections would be held 25 April. 6 groups contributing members to the electoral commission (IEC) 13 Feb signed deal to break IEC stalemate following Jan opposition/CFC rebel coalition walkout: opposition appointed new delegates and govt agreed to IEC financial audit. CFC continues to demand resignation of IEC president Joseph Binguimalé. DDR “sensitisation” campaign started 5 Feb, quickly stalling as APRD rebels and govt exchanged accusations of embezzling DDR funds. Bozizé 30 Jan acknowledged death of CPJP leader Charles Massi but next day issued contradictory statement denying knowledge of his fate. String of LRA attacks in south east mid-late month.
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Central African Republic
| 1 Feb 2010
| Massi family and CPJP rebels 16 Jan alleged rebel leader Charles Massi, arrested 19 Dec, tortured and killed in custody; govt denied but Massi’s whereabouts unknown. Electoral preparations again faltered as opposition parties and rebel groups 15 Jan suspended participation in electoral commission and demanded resignation of CEI head Joseph Binguimalé, citing alleged bias towards President Bozizé and plans for “massive fraud”. UFVN opposition coalition suspended membership of 5 CEI representatives who refused to quit. Operations by Ugandan forces against LRA rebels in south east continued, with troops 2 Jan claiming to have killed LRA second-in-command Bok Abudema.
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Central African Republic
| 4 Jan 2010
| Govt 7 Dec launched retaliatory attack on CPJP rebel base near Ngarba on Chadian border. Charles Massi, who claims CPJP leadership, arrested again in SW Chad late Dec after his followers clashed with Chadian army. Alleged assault by bandits near Sam-Ouandja in northeast left 3 dead, including 2 from UFDR rebel group; UN MINURCAT contingent deployed 14 Dec to protect Sudanese refugees from reprisals. 31 Economic Community of Central African States military observers arrived by 15 Dec to monitor DDR, but process on hold until security situation improves. President Bozizé 13 Dec pledged to combat continuing LRA activity in southeast. FM 8 Dec met Sudanese president Bashir to discuss border security, trade. Independent Electoral Commission 17 Dec announced electoral calendar: 1st round legislative and presidential elections 18 April, 2nd round 23 May.
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Central African Republic
| 1 Dec 2009
| Ex-president Patassé, following Oct return from exile, 9 Nov confirmed intention to contest presidential elections scheduled for March 2010, 21 Nov announced he would run as independent candidate. DDR advancing slowly; Economic Community of Central African States 5 Nov agreed to deploy 31 military observers mid Dec to monitor rebel disarmament. CPJP rebel group 26 Nov attacked and occupied northern town of Ndélé, condemning govt’s failure to open negotiations with group; govt restored control later same day; 2 soldiers, 9 rebels killed. Rebels 27 Nov appointed negotiator for govt talks. Armed men 22 Nov kidnapped 2 French NGO workers in Birao, far northeast. Ongoing LRA attacks continued to fuel humanitarian emergency in southeast. Ugandan forces in CAR 17 Nov claimed to have killed senior LRA commander.
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Central African Republic
| 1 Nov 2009
| In setback to peace process, leader of FDPC rebel group Abdoulaye Miskine 2 Oct announced govt had failed to implement 2007 and 2009 peace agreements, declared both “null and void”; follows Sept arrest of 2 FDPC officers. Govt 10 Oct accused Chadian General Baba Laddé, based in CAR, of attacking CAR-Chad border post 3 Oct and, in apparent turnaround from Sept call for talks, ordered his expulsion. Baba Laddé disappeared same day, thought extradited to Chad. President Bozizé promulgated revised electoral code, accepted by opposition, and formed electoral commission early month, but preparations for March 2010 polls still delayed. Ex-President Ange-Félix Patassé returned from exile 30 Oct amid tight security. ICRC announced recent LRA attacks in south-east CAR displaced some 4,500.
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Central African Republic
| 1 Oct 2009
| Preparations for presidential and legislative elections, set for March 2010, stalled 3 Sept when opposition coalition suspended participation in electoral commission over “unconstitutional” provisions in electoral code, calling for its annulment. Constitutional court 25 Sep called on govt to modify code. Ex-President Ange-Félix Patassé, from exile in Togo, late Aug announced intention to return and “potentially” run in elections as head of opposition MPLC, raising prospect of intra-party divisions. First sensitisation phase of DDR process ended 4 Sept after 3-week awareness-raising tour in Bangui and north. DDR challenges underscored over month, as opposition FDPC re-established check points around north’s Kabo town in protest at arrest of 2 officers. APRD commander Lakoué announced disarmament conditional on prior removal of bandits linked to Chadian general Baba Laddé from central north. Ugandan army continued operations against LRA in southeast, claimed to have captured 2 senior commanders, killed 10 fighters including Lt. Col. Santo Alit, member of LRA Juba peace team.
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Central African Republic
| 1 Sep 2009
| Govt 13 Aug launched 3-year DDR program in northwestern town of Paoua for estimated 6,000-10,000 rebels. Followed 3 Aug protests in Bangui by ex-combatants protesting DDR delays. Challenges to program include uncertainty over rebel numbers, lack of security due to presence of other armed groups and bandits. Launch came as media reports accuse govt of withholding DDR-earmarked funds donated by regional economic body CEMAC. President Bozizé 3 Aug promulgated controversial electoral law seen to favour incumbent, 20 Aug officially launched his KNK party. Reports of increased attacks by LRA rebels active in southeast (see Uganda).
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Central African Republic
| 1 Aug 2009
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| FDPC rebel group leader Abdoulaye Miskine 3 July signed 2008 Global Peace Agreement with govt in margins of AU summit in Libya. Chad 8 July released CPJP rebel group leader Charles Massi, requiring he negotiates with govt. New electoral commission established following National Assembly’s 27 June approval of new election law; opposition protested govt requirement that commission head be appointed by govt, not elected. U.S., France pledged support for election process. Leader of opposition MLPC Martin Ziguélé, following visit to north west towns, alleged ministry of territorial administration carrying out illegal census, ruling KNK party intimidating local officials.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°55, Central African Republic: Untangling the Political Dialogue, 9 Dec. 2008.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jul 2009
| Former president Ange-Felix Patasse announced from Togo exile readiness to contest 2010 presidential elections. MPLC 12 June selected ex-PM Martin Ziguele as candidate. Former rebel UFDR military base in N East’s Birao town twice under attack by suspected Kara ethnic group militants: UFDR reported 27 killed in attack by some 60 gunmen 6 June, 10 militants killed in further assault 21 June. At least 18 killed in fighting between govt forces and CJPJ rebels around N West’s Ndélé town 12 June. CPJP demanded release of leader Charles Massi, arrested in Chad late May for “attempted destabilisation”. ICC 15 June ordered former Congolese opposition MLC party leader Jean Pierre Bemba to stand trial for war crimes during support for then-president Patasse in quelling attempted coup 2002-3.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°55, Central African Republic: Untangling the Political Dialogue, 9 Dec. 2008.
Central African Republic
| 1 Jun 2009
| Fighting continued in northwest with around 7 killed in 17 May clashes between APRD rebels and alleged Chadian bandits: APRD said clashes followed calls from villagers for action against cattle raiding. OCHA reported some 100 CAR refugees crossing daily into southern Chad due to increased insecurity in north, warned of risks to humanitarian access with onset of rainy season in coming weeks.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°55, Central African Republic: Untangling the Political Dialogue, 9 Dec. 2008
Central African Republic
| 1 May 2009
| Reports of govt-rebel clashes over month fuelled fears for unravelling of Dec national dialogue. Army 13 Apr launched assault on FDPC rebel elements in Boukoayanga to liberate govt detainees, reportedly capturing 10 FDPC fighters, with further confrontation in Kabo 19 April. Reports emerged army in Feb killed 21 civilians in N’dele region over alleged links to northern rebels. Fighting over cattle poaching broke out in Bangui, 11-12 Apr, leaving 22 dead, scores injured. UNSC 7 Apr endorsed call from UNSG Ban for creation of new UN peacebuilding office for CAR to address ongoing insecurity, DDR of rebel groups.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°55, Central African Republic: Untangling the Political Dialogue, 9 Dec. 2008.
Central African Republic
| 1 Apr 2009
| Fears for deterioration in security as Dec National Dialogue agreement continued to unravel. Rebel FDPC elements infiltrated Bangui, prompting deployment of French troops in capital from 1 March; rebel MLCJ 3 March announced it had taken up arms; almost 200 FDPC, APRD combatants left Bouar DDR site 2 March. CPJP called for dissolution of Jan 2008 govt, accused govt forces of 20 March attack on troops in north. At 7 March meeting, Libyan leader Qaddafi, in apparent sign of support for rebels’ growing frustration, handed Bozizé letter from UFR, MLCJ, FDPC demanding adherence to Dialogue recommendations. Clashes between govt forces, rebel and vigilante groups continued in northwest; UN reported 28,000 displaced since fighting intensified across north in Jan. UN force MINURCAT for CAR/Chad took over EUFOR responsibilities 15 March (with bulk of forces in Chad). CPJP spokesperson 9 March warned fighting could resume post-handover.
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| For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°55, Central African Republic: Untangling the Political Dialogue, 9 Dec. 2008.
Central African Republic
| 1 Mar 2009
President Bozizé 5 Feb ordered creation of monitoring committee relating to agreements reached at Inclusive National Dialogue (IND) in Dec, including pilot DDR process. Rebel groups MLCJ, FDPC, UFR 16 Feb issued joint declaration threatening to resume violence in protest at Bozizé’s perceived failure to implement IND consensus. FDPC 21 Feb briefly occupied northern town of Batangafo, warned of further attacks. In northwest, unidentified rebels 12-13 Feb launched simultaneous attacks in Bossembélé, freeing 19 Sudanese detainees; clashes between Runga, Gulus ethnic groups forced thousands across Chadian border. Army 25 Feb reported LRA fighters crossed from DRC into CAR, several rebels killed in ensuing clashes.
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For background, see Crisis Group Africa Briefing N°55, Central African Republic: Untangling the Political Dialogue, 9 Dec. 2008
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