C.A.R. Rebels Surrender Amid Joint Security Efforts with Chad
The Central African Republic has reported the surrender of several hundred rebels who handed over their weapons to the government and U.N. forces. This move follows a security agreement with Chad for border protection. The government aims to conduct local elections delayed due to conflict, with new dates set for December, contingent upon conditions. The initiatives signify a broader aim to disarm a substantial number of insurgents by the end of 2025.
In a significant development, the Central African Republic (C.A.R.) announced the surrender of several hundred rebel fighters, who have voluntarily disarmed and relinquished their weapons to government forces supported by the United Nations. This event follows an agreement reached with neighboring Chad aimed at enhancing security efforts along their extensive shared border of 1,200 kilometers. C.A.R. officials are optimistic that these developments may facilitate the rescheduling of postponed local elections, initially slated for October, as they aim to restore stability in the region. The predicament of the rebels was exacerbated by relentless offensives from government troops, compelling many to abandon their arms. Mloubo Etienne, a 36-year-old fighter from the Union for Peace (UPC), one of C.A.R.’s largest armed groups, shared on state television that the unbearable conditions within the tropical rainforests had driven him to surrender. He emphasized that many of his fellow fighters were facing severe food shortages, particularly due to Chad’s military actions that have disrupted supply lines. Government spokesperson Maxime Balalou confirmed that among the 105 fighters who surrendered in Bambari were members of both the UPC and the anti-balaka rebel factions. In a separate disarmament initiative in Kouango, 36 fighters, including three women, also surrendered their weapons. Balalou asserted that these individuals would be directed to the C.A.R. Center for Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration, where they would receive training for reintegration into society or potential enlistment in national forces. The anti-balaka coalition has been active for a decade, contributing to ongoing instability in the region. The C.A.R. government has committed to neutralizing rebel hideouts that refuse to comply with disarmament efforts, aiming to achieve peace in time for the local elections, the first in 36 years. Originally scheduled for October, these elections have been postponed, with new dates targeted for December 29, contingent upon security conditions. Discussions between C.A.R. and Chad on October 23 resulted in the establishment of a joint security force to oversee border operations against rebel groups. In this context, Chad has pledged to deploy troops at the border to restrict the flow of supplies to the rebels, while C.A.R. forces have mandated that any remaining insurgents who do not surrender will face lethal consequences. The ambition of the C.A.R. government is to encourage at least half of the estimated 21,000 rebels to disarm by the close of 2025, marking a pivotal step towards lasting peace within the nation.
The Central African Republic (C.A.R.), plagued by conflict since 2013, has witnessed the rise of various armed groups, including the Union for Peace (UPC) and anti-balaka factions. These groups have contributed to ongoing instability, prompting the government to seek international support and collaboration with neighboring nations. The recent cooperation with Chad to create a joint security force marks an important step in combatting these rebel groups and restoring governmental control. With elections previously delayed due to insecurity, timely disarmament is critical for the C.A.R. to achieve lasting peace and democratic governance.
In conclusion, the surrender of several hundred rebel fighters represents a significant stride towards restoring peace in the Central African Republic. The collaboration between C.A.R. and Chad, alongside ongoing disarmament efforts, is critical for establishing security and preparing the country for its first local elections in 36 years. The government’s objective to have half of the estimated 21,000 rebellious forces disarm by 2025 underscores their commitment to achieving stability and renewing the political landscape.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
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