Region / country
period from
to
1976 results found
Items 1 - 50 of 1976
Guinea
| 1 May 2013
Tensions over proposed date for legislative polls and revision of electoral lists continued: govt, opposition agreed over UNSG Ban’s designation of SRSG for West Africa Saïd Djinnit as facilitator. President Condé 13 April announced 30 June poll date, electoral commission resumed operations despite ongoing dialogue. Opposition 18 April marched in Conakry to protest govt’s attitude, lack of dialogue and agreement concerning electoral preparations; at least 15 injured in clashes with police, 7 arrested including 2 opposition leaders. Further clashes 25 April left 1 dead. Djinnit 15-17 April visited Conakry, called on parties to stay calm.
South Sudan
| 1 May 2013
Talks with Sudan 23-25 April resulted in agreement to open or reopen 10 border corridors, establish Joint Security Committee (JSC) to deal with rebel demands and other disputes; UNSG Ban welcomed direct talks and agreements. Oil production resumed 7 April following March agreement. Clashes in Jonglei continued; a dozen people killed in attack on UNMISS peacekeepers 9 April including 5 UN troops. Both SPLA and Yau Yau rebels denied responsibility; UNMISS deployed additional forces to region. SPLA soldier and 3 rebels killed in attack on Pibor town by Yau Yau rebels 30 April. SSLA rebels surrendered 26 April following govt announcement of presidential amnesty. Over 20 killed mid-April in clashes in Eastern Equatoria, including 4 medical staff reportedly killed by security forces.
Rwanda
| 1 May 2013
Rwanda 1 April took chair of UNSC; FM Mushikiwabo expressed reservations over UN intervention in DRC, 15 April said Rwanda preferred political over military solution. Opposition leader Victoire Ingabire 16 April began appeal to Supreme Court challenging Oct 2012 genocide denial conviction.
Chad
| 1 May 2013
N’Djamena 3, 18 April hosted regional summits on CAR; CAR ex-president Bozizé mid-April said arms used by Seleka rebels “transited through Chad with permission of President Déby”. President Déby 15 April announced troop withdrawal from Mali following killing of 3 Chadian soldiers in suicide bombing in Kidal; French Defence Minister Le Drian April 27 met Déby in N’Djamena, said France would support Chad’s request to command UN peacekeeping mission in Mali. Déby 27 April said Chadian mercenaries have set up training camps in Libya, Libya denied.
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.
Sudan
| 1 May 2013
Talks with South Sudan 23-25 April resulted in agreement to open or reopen 10 border corridors (see S Sudan). Govt talks with SPLM-N rebels began 24 April, broke down 26 April as parties unable to agree “declaration of common intent” presented by AU. Rebels 27 April took town of Umm Ruwaba, N Kordofan; govt swiftly retook town, 29 April called on SPLM-N to stop attacks, return to talks. Increased insecurity in Darfur: govt signed peace deal with JEM splinter faction led by Mohammed Bashar 6 April; fighting erupted between JEM and Bashar’s splinter faction 20 April killing JEM-Bashar commander Saleh Mohammed Jerbo, indicted by ICC for war crimes. Central Reserve Police paramilitaries in West Darfur reportedly mutinied 21 April. Govt forces clashed with SLA-Minni Minawi (SLA-MM) in east Darfur early April; 7 soldiers captured by SLA-MM released 21 April. UNAMID peacekeeper killed 17 April in southern Darfur by suspected pro-govt militiaman, govt denied link. President Bashir 1 April agreed to free political prisoners; Human Rights Watch 23 April said though 24 released, over 100 remain detained. Court 25 April sentenced 6 intelligence officers up to 8 years’ prison for role in 2012 coup attempt.
Cameroon
| 1 May 2013
Govt 14 April held first-ever senatorial election; ruling party won 56 of 70 seats. Authorities 19 April announced release of French family abducted Feb by Nigerian Islamist sect Boko Haram reportedly in exchange for $3.15m ransom and release of sect members imprisoned in Cameroon. Insecurity in east continued following early 2013 influx of refugees from CAR. Cameroon gendarmes 2 April launched “police action” in oil-rich Bakassi peninsula, ceded by Nigeria to Cameroon after ICJ ruling in 2002; 11 killed, some 1,800 displaced. Reasons for action unclear; Nigerian vowed to respond to attack.
Zimbabwe
| 1 May 2013
Battles to succeed President Mugabe within ZANU-PF party intensified, with VP Mujuru and Defence Minister Mnangagwa still seen as main contenders: in swing province Manicaland, local leaders expressed vote of no confidence in Mujuru ally Dydmus Mutasa, while arrest of provincial chair Mike Madiro for alleged fraud and theft sparked rumours he was targeted because of his support for Mnangagwa. EU suspended sanctions against 81 ZANU-PF officials, leaving just 10 on list, citing adoption of new constitution as significant step. Continued concerns over lack of funding for elections scheduled for 29 June, budgeted at $132m; ZANU-PF mid-month rejected UN needs assessment mission claiming it overstepped mandate by including security-related concerns and requesting meetings with civil society. Heightened tension within unity govt and clampdowns on civil society further exacerbated fears elections will not be credible.
Côte d'Ivoire
| 1 May 2013
Municipal and regional elections held 21 April despite Ivorian Popular Front (FPI) boycott. 36% turnout; independent candidates came first with 34% of local council seats, ahead of Rally of the Republicans (RDR) (30%) and Democratic Party of Côte d’Ivoire (PDCI) (23%), though most independent candidates from RDR ruling party. Countrywide clashes began 22 April, including between supporters of ruling coalition members PDCI and RDR, particularly in Yamoussoukro, Mankono, Bonon, Lakota, Kouamassi and Adjamé communes of Abidjan. Unidentified gunmen attacked police station in Abidjan 9 April. UN Group of Experts report late April accused former FN rebels of involvement in trafficking of cacao and other resources.
Guinea-Bissau
| 1 May 2013
New York prosecutor 18 April unsealed charges against powerful armed forces Chief of Staff António Injai, sparking fears of yet more turmoil or deadlock in ongoing political transition. U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency 3 April arrested former navy chief Bubo na Tchuto and 4 others in waters off Cape Verde, having lured him in fake drug deal. Govt 19 April announced it will demand trials be held in G-B; army 20 April said Injai will turn himself over “if investigation proves his implication”. UN SRSG José Ramos-Horta 19 April called on authorities to remain calm.
Burundi
| 1 May 2013
National Assembly and Senate 29 April finished drafting controversial draft media law widely condemned as restrictive by press, UN, opposition and civil society. President Nkurunziza 9-12 April visited Iran, discussed economic support. Nkurunziza 13 April addressed ruling party leaders, warned against factionalism.
Ethiopia/Eritrea
| 1 May 2013
Eritrea: Air Force pilot defected to Saudi Arabia early April during assignment to retrieve presidential jet left in Jizan airport in Oct 2012 by two defecting Eritrean pilots. CAR ex-president Bozizé mid-April accused Eritrean govt of arming Seleka rebels in CAR; govt denied. UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in Eritrea 14 April said authorities failed to cooperate, refused her entry into country.
Ethiopia: PM Dessalegn late April announced withdrawal of troops from Somalia, expressed concern over pace of Somalia’s transition. Dessalegn 18 April met with EU president, discussed human rights, 20 April denied reports of large-scale govt land-grabbing. Govt 30 April reaffirmed willingness to hold talks with Eritrea on border dispute.
Mali
| 1 May 2013
Suicide attacks in northern towns continued. French/Malian troops 1 April killed 3 alleged jihadis in Timbuktu; 10 April arrested Tarkint mayor Baba Ould Cheikh near Gao for suspected links with Movement for Oneness and Jihad in West Africa (MUJAO) and drug trafficking; 6-11 April led Operation Gustav to comb areas near Gao. Suicide attack in Kidal killed 3 Chadian soldiers 12 April; roadside bomb killed French soldier 29 April. EUTM-Mali 2 April started operations in Koulikoro; expected to last 15 months. UNSC 25 April approved deployment of force comprising 11,200 military personnel, 1,440 international police, to take over from 6,000-member African Union mission AFISMA on 1 July, security permitting. French and Chadian troops early-month began drawdown; France said would reduce forces on the ground to 2,000 by July and 1,000 by year-end; Chad indicated it may redeploy troops as part of UN-led force. MNLA 24 April said group rejects elections and disarming before talks with Bamako.
Nigeria
| 1 May 2013
Army launched large-scale military assault on militant Islamist Boko Haram (BH) base in Baga, Borno state, 19 April; at least 187 reportedly killed including many civilians; President Jonathan 23 April ordered investigation. Army Chief of Staff 3 April attributed rising BH terrorism to links with international terror groups. 25 killed in clash between security forces and BH militants in Yobe state 26 April. Niger Delta rebel group MEND 14 April threatened to launch attacks on Islamic institutions in response to BH attacks on churches. Govt signed €89m financing agreement with EU.
Kenya
| 1 May 2013
Uhuru Kenyatta inaugurated as president 9 April after winning March elections; Supreme Court 16 April confirmed validity of election. Amani coalition dissolved after several members left to align with ruling Jubilee coalition. Kenyatta’s trial at ICC for role in 2007 post-election violence still scheduled to begin July. Kenyatta 23 April unveiled choices for PM, health, information, finance ministers. 10 killed in gun attack in Garissa town 18 April; at least 10 police officers and chiefs in NE region suspended for alleged involvement in illegal activities, links to criminal entities behind killings in Garissa.
Somalia
| 1 May 2013
Series of Al-Shabaab suicide attacks in Mogadishu 14 April: over 35 killed, dozens injured in attack on Supreme Court compound; car bomb targeting Turkish/AU convoy on road to airport killed 4. Deputy chief prosecutor assassinated 24 April. Journalist shot dead 21 April in Mogadishu. Army 21 April carried out several operations in Bakool region, reportedly seizing Hudur and Garas Weyne towns from Al-Shabaab. AMISOM 3 April announced 241km route from Mogadishu to Baidoa clear for civilian use. President Sheikh 8 April admitted for first time involvement of security forces in violence against civilians. U.S. President Obama 8 April authorised provision of arms to Somalia, following UNSC partial lifting of arms embargo in March. Reports of Al-Shabaab leadership struggle continued: founding member Ibrahim al-Afghani in 12 April open letter to al-Qaeda leader Al-Zawahiri said Al-Shabaab facing strong internal discontent, opponents of Al-Shabaab leader Ahmed Abdi Godane often killed or imprisoned. Al-Shabaab 20 April said 127 “govt spies” killed since beginning of 2013.
Madagascar
| 1 May 2013
Malagasy Council of Churches (FFKM) 18 April launched national dialogue involving 180 political parties and entities to solve political crisis; UN, AU criticised FFKM mediation for broaching idea of postponing elections on first day of dialogue. Newly-created National Council for Reconciliation 10 April named General Rabotoarison to lead reconciliation efforts. Mouvance Ravalomanana coalition 14 April announced nomination of former first lady Lalao Ravalomanana as candidate for upcoming presidential elections; President Rajoelina’s Tanora malaGasy Vonona (TGV) party 6 April nominated outsider Edgard Razafindravahy as candidate. Head of gendarmerie said security forces need €2.5 million to ensure peaceful elections.
DR Congo
| 1 May 2013
Authorities announced assassination plot against President Kabila foiled 17 April. Talks between M23 and govt remain stalled; M23 rebels 12 April warned of reprisals if attacked by 3,069-strong UN intervention force expected to deploy late April; UN 25 April appointed Brazilian General dos Santos Cruz head of MONUSCO. Govt 5 April authorised controversial ban on exports of non-processed copper and iron; mineral-rich Katanga province rejected ban. 12 senior army officers suspended 11 April following UN probe into mass rape allegations.
Somalia
| 1 Apr 2013
UNSC 6 March extended AMISOM mandate by one year, authorised purchase of light weapons by govt for security forces. PM Shirdon 26 March joined Kismayo conference on formation of Jubaland State, 30 March declared it unconstitutional, said conference outcome will not be recognized by Somali govt. Govt 6 March signed agreement with Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama, group to be incorporated into Somali security forces. Somali forces 24 March recaptured Hudur, capital of Bakool region. PM Shirdon and Puntland President Farole 11 March signed agreement regulating relations between Somalia and Puntland autonomous region. Inter-ethnic clashes within govt forces 22 March resulted in 2 killed, 4 injured. Reported rape victim previously jailed for offending honour of the State freed by Court of Appeals 3 March, journalist who interviewed her freed 17 March. Bombings 1, 18, 21 March in Mogadishu killed 13. Unidentified gunmen 24 March killed journalist in Mogadishu.
Côte d'Ivoire
| 1 Apr 2013
At least 7 people, including 2 FRCI, killed and over 1,000 displaced in raid by unknown gunmen on Zilébly town, near Liberian border, 13 March; several media reports blamed attack on “assailants from Liberia”. Army reported 3 gunmen attempting to raid border village killed 23 March. Govt 11 March inaugurated 750-strong Centre for Coordination of Operational Decision-making in Abidjan to tackle insecurity in capital. Authorities 1 March released senior Ivorian Popular Front leader Laurent Akoun.
Cameroon
| 1 Apr 2013
Following Feb abduction of 7 French tourists, including 4 children, govt reinforced security along Waza-Dabanga-Kousseri road, deployed Rapid Intervention Battalion in Amchidé town; also established 3 inter-ministerial committees to deal with hostage crisis. Islamist sect Boko Haram 18 March released video of hostages, said suicide bombings and kidnappings will increase if govt does not release jailed Islamist militants. French FM Fabius visited 15-16 March, reiterated French support for efforts to liberate kidnapped French citizens. Political parties 18 March submitted candidate lists to Electoral Council; ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement only party to field candidates in all 10 provinces. Govt 25 March confirmed deposed CAR president Bozizé had sought refuge in country.
Guinea-Bissau
| 1 Apr 2013
Govt, civil society 8-15 March held talks to promote dialogue with military. Transitional president Nhamadjo 11 March threatened to resign in absence of political progress. Preparations for PAIGC congress continued: former PM Aristides Gomes 4 March announced imminent return; José Mario Vaz and Domingos Simoes Pereira, former exec sec of CPLP, declared candidacy 7 and 14 March respectively. Court 13 March began hearing of Captain Pansau N’Tchama for Oct 2012 attempted coup; N’Tchama said order to stage coup reportedly given by former chief of staff Zamora Induta with support from Angola and Gambia. UN SRSG Ramos-Horta 3-4 March met EU president and parliament, called for renewed EU assistance,13 March met with Nhamadjo. Youths in Colibuia in south clashed with Chinese timber company early March sparking media outrage, parliamentary debate, accusations against senior govt figures involved in selling permits.
Madagascar
| 1 Apr 2013
President Rajoelina 13 March announced legislative elections to be held 7 May.
DR Congo
| 1 Apr 2013
ICC indictee Bosco Ntaganda 18 March surrendered to U.S. embassy in Kigali, ending violent infighting between M23 rebel factions in DRC that has killed over 150; transferred to ICC custody 22 March. Ntaganda-allied Jean-Marie Runiga and Baudoin Ngaruye reportedly crossed into Rwanda 16 March with 550 M23 fighters; Rwanda swiftly announced their arrest. Ntaganda rival Sultani Makenga reportedly assumed leadership of M23. Following Ntaganda’s surrender, DRC and Ugandan govts announced imminent resumption of Kampala talks. President Kabila 24 March met with Rwandan and Ugandan counterparts in Oyo, Congo Brazzaville, to discuss regional security. Mayi Mayi asking for Katanga independence briefly occupied Lubumbashi 23 March before surrendering to MONUSCO. UNSC 28 March approved deployment of 2,500-strong intervention force.
Ethiopia/Eritrea
| 1 Apr 2013
Eritrea: Govt late Feb and early March reportedly detained and assaulted 125 Christians accused of “illegal” worship. In letter to UNSG Ban, President Afewerki 5 March reportedly requested inquiry into human trafficking, noting Eritrea remains target.
Ethiopia: National Intelligence and Security Service 25 March said 8 al-Shabaab militants arrested in Somali region, group planning abduction of UN workers from refugee camp in Dolo Ado. 4 senior Tigray Peoples Liberation Front members resigned 22 March, reportedly as part of plan to replace older leadership with younger party members. Court 27 March delayed appeal of journalist Eskinder Nega and opposition leader, jailed July 2012 on terrorism charges.
Burundi
| 1 Apr 2013
UN-backed workshop on electoral process 11-13 March, attended by ruling party and opposition, agreed roadmap for 2015 polls including adoption of electoral code by Dec 2013. Journalist Hassan Ruvakuki, jailed since Nov 2011, granted provisional release 6 March. President Nkurunziza 10-12 March visited Paris, discussed intervention in Mali. 9 killed, some 40 wounded 12 March when followers of “Zebiya”, young woman claiming to have visions, clashed with police in Kayanza province; ministers of security and interior praised police, compared Zebiya followers to Nigerian Islamist sect Boko Haram. Following outcry at police brutality, comments by ministers, 3 policemen arrested. National Security Council 19 March declared Zebiya followers to be treated as outlaws.
Guinea
| 1 Apr 2013
At least one killed in violent protests 4, 5, 8 March. Opposition pulled out of talks aimed at preparing for dialogue on May elections beginning 4 March, accused govt of failing to respect terms of dialogue. Authorities dropped investigations against opposition figures relating to protests. Revision of electoral lists suspended 14 March.
Rwanda
| 1 Apr 2013
ICC indictee Bosco Ntaganda mid-month crossed border from DRC into Rwanda, surrendered at U.S. embassy and was transferred to ICC. Several donors resumed aid programs: UK 2 March released GBP 24m for humanitarian projects. Amnesty International 25 March reported trial of opposition leader Victoire Ingabire “flawed”, international standards flouted. Govt continued tightening controls on civil society. Grenade attack 27 March killed 1, wounded 8 in Kigali.
Nigeria
| 1 Apr 2013
At least 25 killed 22 March in four coordinated gun and bomb attacks by suspected Boko Haram (BH) militants in Ganye, near Cameroon border; some 120 prison inmates freed in attack. 3 bombs exploded in Kano 23 March; bomb attack 18 March killed at least 20 in Sabon Gari district, Kano; army 31 March said 14 suspected BH killed in raid in Kano. 20 BH militants killed 3 March by army after attacking military barracks in Monguno, Borno state. Kaduna politician Hussaini Dei Dei arrested 5 March after weapons, explosives found in his home. President Jonathan 7 March said he could not grant amnesty to BH militants until group members and aims known, following request from Sultan of Sokoto for amnesty like that given to Niger Delta MEND fighters. Ansaru militants 9 March said 7 foreign workers abducted Feb executed. Over 50 killed in communal violence following 27 March attack by Fulani herdsmen on 2 villages in Plateau state.
Mali
| 1 Apr 2013
Military operations targeting Islamist militant groups in north intensified, including fierce clashes in Gao as Islamist rebel attack repelled 24 March; clashes ongoing in Timbuktu following suicide bomb attack on army checkpoint 30 March. Chadian army 2 March said ex-AQIM emir Mokhtar Belmokthar killed. French joint chiefs of staff head Guillaud 4 March said AQIM “Sahara emir” Abou Zeid “probably” killed in airstrike late Feb; media 6 March reported Ansar Dine leader Iyad ag Ghali likely killed during fighting in Tigarghar mountains. French Defence Minister Le Drian 7 March visited forces in Ametettai valley, said French forces “dismantled AQIM base”, killed more than 150 rebels in Gao vicinity since Feb; President Hollande 6 March said final phase of military intervention, troop drawdown to begin in April. French FM Fabius 14 March called on UNSC to deploy peacekeepers; UNSG Ban 26 March report to UNSC proposed 11,000-strong multidimensional integrated stabilization mission. Regional states confirmed plans to send troops to join regional force. MNLA 5 March called on ICC to investigate army crimes; UN OHCHR 12 March issued communiqué accusing Malian army of reprisals against Tuareg, Arab and Peul communities, increasing fears of inter-ethnic backlash. Journalist Boukary Daou arrested for publishing article criticising coup leader Captain Sanogo’s salary; arrest prompted media strike, concern over junta influence in Bamako. Govt 6 March announced creation of Dialogue and Reconciliation Commission.
Sudan
| 1 Apr 2013
Opposition figures and rebel groups early March welcomed security agreement between Sudan and S Sudan (see S Sudan). Defence Minister Hussein 20 March offered to hold direct talks with SPLM-N; SPLM-N reiterated need for negotiations to be based on UNSC resolution 2046, accused govt of aiming to isolate S Kordofan and Blue Nile states but did not refuse direct negotiations. VP Taha 26 March invited rebels to help draft new constitution. Following rumours of talks on national dialogue, Communist Party of Sudan (CPS) said would not negotiate with NCP so long as “oppressive policies, narrowing of political space and adoption of military solutions to problems facing Sudan” continue. President Bashir 20 March said he will not run for presidency in 2015 elections. Popular discontent continued: dozens protested 5 March in Khartoum over closure of hospitals; Darfur student association 15 March issued statement condemning targeting by security forces following early-March attack by NCP students. Thousands protested 19 March against “rigged” state governor elections; security forces forcibly dispersed protestors, injuring dozens.
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.
Zimbabwe
| 1 Apr 2013
Referendum on adoption of new constitution held 16-17 March with highest turnout for any election in decades. Of those voting, 94.5% voted in favour. MDC MP and BBC team reportedly assaulted during final stages of campaigning. Observers including national group Zimbabwe Election Support Network and SADC said referendum peaceful, reflected will of people; EU 25 March eased sanctions on 81 officials and 8 firms; sanctions on President Mugabe and 10 close associates remain. Tensions continued to rise ahead of upcoming elections with reports of ZANU-PF intimidation of civilians, police raids on civil society organizations. Police 17 March raided PM Tsvangirai’s communications office, seized computers, arrested 4 staff and charged them with breaching official secrets code, impersonating police and illegal possession of documents. Human rights lawyer Beatrice Mtetra, who intervened during raid, arrested for obstructing justice; released on bail 25 March.
Liberia
| 1 Apr 2013
Opposition protested President Sirleaf Johnson’s nomination of Jerome Kokoya as next chairman of Elections Commission on basis of Kokoya’s membership of ruling Unity Party. UN mission (UNMIL) 14 March restated commitment to “providing maximum security” despite troop reduction. Defence Ministry refuted claims attack in Côte d’Ivoire attributable to gunmen from Liberia (see Côte d’Ivoire). UNHCR 19 March closed Dougee refugee camp following repatriation of over 5,200 Ivorian refugees.
Chad
| 1 Apr 2013
Rebel Union of Forces of Resistance (UFR) coalition 21 March announced resumption of rebellion. 2,000 Chadian troops 9 March officially joined African regional force deployed in Mali. President Déby 18 March said extremist Islamic threat exists in Chad, some Chadians already joined terrorist organizations. Opposition leader of disbanded rebel party FROLINAT 18 March returned to Chad after over 30 years’ exile following reconciliation with govt.
Kenya
| 1 Apr 2013
Largely peaceful presidential elections held 4 March: violence along coast in Kilif, Mombasa and Kwale counties on eve of election left 18 dead, including 6 police officers; Mombasa Republican Council blamed, denied responsibility. Electoral Commission declared ICC indictee Uhuru Kenyatta winner with 50.07% of vote; 86% of registered voters voted. Supreme Court 30 March upheld Kenyatta win after 25 March ordering partial recount of vote on basis of petition by PM Odinga alleging irregularities. 2 killed, 11 injured 30 March during protests over Supreme Court ruling. ICC 11 March announced charges against former civil service chief Francis Muthaura for role in 2007 election violence dropped, Kenyatta case postponed to 9 July, Ruto and Sang case to 28 May. At least 7, including policeman, killed 28 March in attack on casino in Malindi, coastal region.
South Sudan
| 1 Apr 2013
Govt 12 March signed security agreement with Sudan; both govts mid-month began withdrawal of troops from demilitarised border zone. Govt 26 March said oil flow will resume soon; Sudan and S Sudan central banks 30 March agreed on methodology and experts to facilitate collection of Khartoum oil revenues. Reports late month suggested Khartoum has abandoned demand for 50% of administrative positions in Abyei administration, prompting hopes long-delayed referendum will be held. SPLA repeatedly clashed with rebels in Jonglei state; over 150 rebels, 20 govt troops reportedly killed 26 March in Pibor county.
Rwanda
| 1 Mar 2013
President Kagame 17 Feb tasked 3 senior Rwandan Patriotic Front members with developing “transition formula” for end of his mandate in 2017, quelling rumours he will seek further term. Kagame 23 Feb signed DRC peace framework.
Chad
| 1 Mar 2013
West and Central African leaders 16 Feb met in N’Djamena at Sahel-Saharan regional CEN-SAD summit, discussed regional security. Chad widely criticised for hosting ICC indictee Sudanese President Bashir at summit. President Déby 27 Feb called for urgent deployment of regional troops to Mali. 6,000-strong police force suspended 4 Feb, police chief dismissed 6 Feb following investigation that revealed irregularities including graft; Déby 14 Feb dismissed Interior and Public Security Minister and Minister of Territorial Administration, accused of favouritism.
Madagascar
| 1 Mar 2013
National electoral commission (CENIT) 5 Feb announced legislative and presidential elections postponed from May to July; over 30 candidates expected to contest presidential polls. South Africa’s highest court 5 Feb rejected final appeal by former president Ravalomanana to have passport returned, effectively precluding him from attending regional meetings or returning to Madagascar. AU Peace and Security Council 16 Feb rejected request from govt to reintegrate country into organisation. Tensions in south continued: at least 10 killed, 1,200 cattle stolen, 153 houses burned in clashes between Dahalo cattle-raiders and villagers in Amboasary-sud district.
Nigeria
| 1 Mar 2013
Gunmen 16 Feb raided construction company camp in Jama’re, Bauchi state, killing guard and kidnapping 7 foreign workers; Boko Haram (BH) offshoot Ansaru claimed responsibility. At least 1 killed, mosques, churches and homes burned 23 Feb in sectarian riots in Wukari town, Taraba state. Several bombs exploded 28 Feb in Maiduguri where All Progressives Congress holding meeting attended by several high-level politicians. At least 6 reportedly killed 23 Feb in suspected BH attack in Ngalda, Yobe state. Attackers dressed as soldiers 21 Feb killed reported Christian family of 10 in Plateau state. Military 1 Feb said 17 insurgents killed in attack on 2 BH training camps. Suspected BH 19 Feb kidnapped 7 French tourists from Cameroon, thought to be held in north (see Cameroon). Gunmen 8 Feb killed at least 10 in attack on 2 polio clinics in Kano following Wazobia FM radio broadcast linking vaccines to Western plot against Muslims; 2 Wazobia journalists and radical Islamist cleric arrested and charged with incitement to violence, station’s licence revoked.
DR Congo
| 1 Mar 2013
Regional leaders 23 Feb signed Peace Framework Agreement under auspices of UN, AU, SADC and Great Lakes region; states agreed to abstain from interfering in internal affairs of neighbours, DRC agreed to structural reform. Govt 6 Feb signed agreement with M23 rebels on implementation of March 2009 peace agreement. Clash between rival M23 factions 24 Feb reportedly left 10 dead in Rutshuru region; M23 rebels 27 Feb accused leader Jean-Marie Runiga of treason and embezzlement, replaced him with General Sultani Makenga. Several Mayi Mayi groups 9-17 Feb attacked villages close to Lubumbashi and Pweto, Katanga Province. Head of UN mission Meece 21 Feb told UNSC of concern at re-emergence of armed groups, reported “worrisome security developments” in N Katanga.
Kenya
| 1 Mar 2013
Ahead of presidential polls scheduled for 4 March, High Court 15 Feb ruled that only Supreme Court has jurisdiction to decide eligibility of ICC indictees Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto to run, leaving both free to contest elections; petition filed to bring issue before Supreme Court. Chief Justice Willy Mutunga 20 Feb said he, along with other judges and ambassadors, had received death threats signed “Mungiki Veteran Group. Kenya Sovereignty Defence Squad” ahead of ruling. All 8 presidential candidates 11 Feb and 25 Feb took part in televised debates following initial exclusion of Safina candidate Paul Muite and Alliance for Real Change candidate Mohammed Abduba Dida. AU envoy and former UNSG Kofi Annan 23 Feb warned of election-related violence. Somali militant group Al-Shabaab 27 Feb warned of “long, gruesome war” ahead of elections. 7 killed 21 Feb in attack on mosque in NE near Dadaab refugee camp.
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.
Zimbabwe
| 1 Mar 2013
Increased raids on NGOs, confiscation of documents and equipment, and allegations by police that “99% of NGOs engaged in regime change”, following President Mugabe’s 15 Feb announcement constitutional referendum to be held 16 March; month also saw reports of politically-motivated violence, intimidation. Police 19 Feb issued edict allowing them to seize radios, same day raided offices of independent election support group Crisis Coalition for alleged subversive materials. PM Tsvangirai 13 Feb said presidential polls expected July; VP Mujuru 24 Feb said only SADC observers will be allowed to monitor polls. EU 18 Feb lifted targeted sanctions for 21 regime members; U.S. said prepared to end targeted sanctions, re-engage in bilateral collaboration if govt honours commitments for reform and implements election roadmap. 3 UN special rapporteurs called for respect for fundamental human rights in run-up to polls.
Cameroon
| 1 Mar 2013
7 French tourists abducted from Dabanga on border with Nigeria 19 Feb by suspected Nigerian militants; captors demanded liberation of Islamist militants detained in Cameroon and Nigeria, declared war against France for Mali intervention in video published 25 Feb. President Biya 27 Feb set long-delayed date for Senate polls for 14 April.
South Sudan
| 1 Mar 2013
UN SRSG Johnson 19 Feb visited Jonglei state, urged communities to break cycle of violence following 8 Feb killing of over 100, abduction of unknown number in attack by rebels loyal to David Yau Yau. Lou Nuer and Great Akobo Youth Association protested attack, called for greater protection, decisive action in disarming Murle. Govt accused Sudan of bombing disputed area Jaw, at border of Unity state, 14 Feb; UN SRSG confirmed incident. SPLA early Feb accused Sudan of building up forces along disputed border, reinforced Upper Nile state border garrisons. Amnesty International accused govt of rights violations, unlawful detentions.
Ethiopia/Eritrea
| 1 Mar 2013
Eritrea: President Afwerki 1 Feb declined to give customary annual speech in coastal city Massawa for first time in 21 years; 8 Feb broke silence over 21 Jan “mutiny”, said no reason to worry. Arrests over incident continued early Feb. Information ministry 5 Feb banned Eritreans from providing information on mutiny and protests to Al Jazeera, subsequently blocked channel. Eritrean football team that defected in Dec 2012 given asylum in Uganda.
Ethiopia: Govt 5 Feb aired “Holy War Movement” documentary on Islamic extremism, included confessions by Muslim leaders arrested Aug 2012 and currently on trial for leading peaceful protests; defence lawyer said confessions compelled by force. Some 90,000 Muslims protested 15 Feb outside Grand Anwar mosque against documentary amid fear film will prejudice trial, delegitimise peaceful Muslim demonstrations, stoke religious discord. Rebel Ogaden National Liberation Front 18 Feb warned Canada’s Africa Oil Corporation against exploration in east, said area unsafe, operations should be halted until peace agreement with govt reached.
Guinea-Bissau
| 1 Mar 2013
Tense debate on revision of transition pact, including over creation of multi-party commission, which PAIGC-controlled Assembly considers violation of sovereignty. New UN SRSG Ramos-Horta 21 Feb said transition cannot go on indefinitely, elections should be held before Dec 2013; also expressed concern over living conditions for armed forces. UNSC 23 Feb extended UNIOGBIS mandate for 3 months until 30 April. Former finance minister José Mário Vaz, associate of ousted PM Gomes Junior, arrested 4 Feb and placed under investigation for misappropriation of funds.
Somalia
| 1 Mar 2013
Senior Salafi cleric killed 15 Feb in Garowe, Puntland; traditional elder killed in Dhusamareb 18 Feb; thousands peacefully protested against Al-Shabaab 24 Feb. Suicide car bomb attack targeting Puntland’s Deputy Police Chief killed 10 in Galkayo 11 Feb, Deputy Police Chief unharmed. Reported rape victim and journalist who reported on case both condemned to 1 year jail for “offending the honour of the State” 5 Feb sparking international criticism. President Sheikh 4 Feb reiterated govt ready for talks with Al-Shabaab if group renounces objectives. Security forces 3 Feb arrested 25 suspected Al-Shabaab in Beledweyne, 12 Feb arrested 217 in Mogadishu. Al-Shabaab clashes with AMISOM and govt forces continued including in Beledweyne, Janaale, Bairdoa, Gedo region and Jowhar. AMISOM investigation reported 7 civilians killed by AMISOM troops in Jan operation against Al-Shabaab in Leego village, Lower Shabelle region. Clash 23 Feb between pro-govt clan militias in Kismayo killed 11.
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