Situation in the Central African Republic (19 Jan. 2021)

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France takes note of the final results of the presidential election in the Central African Republic, announced by the Constitutional Court on January 18, and the re-election of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.

It urges the Central African Republic authorities to swiftly establish dialogue with all political stakeholders in the country, notably with the support of the mediator of the Economic Community of Central African States, in order to resume the path toward lasting reconciliation and peace.

France utterly condemns any destabilizing action, especially on the part of the armed groups supported by former President François Bozizé, and calls for the cessation of hostilities. It utterly condemns the attacks carried out against MINUSCA in Grimari, in the prefecture of Ouaka, on January 15, 2021, and near the town of Bangassou on January 18, 2021, which killed several peacekeepers. The perpetrators of these attacks must be identified and brought to justice.

France reaffirms its support for MINUSCA and the guarantors of the peace agreement in their efforts to restore security, ensure respect for the institutions of the Central African Republic and constitutional order, and ease tensions.

Q : Faustin Touadéra was officially reelected leader of the Central African Republic, even though two out of three voters were unable to vote due to the security situation. What is France’s reaction in this context?

A : I refer you to my statement earlier today.