In the Central African Republic, one of the most powerful armed groups in the country, Ali Darasa’s Central African Republic Peace Unit (UPC) “undertakes” to “withdraw from the Coalition of Patriots for Change”, CPC, this rebel coalition was formed in December and which has since tried to overthrow President Touadéra. This is stated in a press release released on Monday night, the authenticity of which the UPC spokesman confirmed.
as reported from Bangui, Florence Morice
The document is handwritten and signed by Ali Darassa’s hand. The rebel leader explains that he and “his officers” undertake to “withdraw from the CPC coalition” and “repeat […] its commitment to the Khartoum process ”.
This peace agreement was signed in February 2019 by 14 armed groups, but was dismissed in December by six of them, including the UPC, ahead of the presidential election. To justify this turnaround, Ali Darassa invokes the suffering that Central Africans are currently suffering from: “insecurity”, “health”, “famine” and “non-humanitarian aid”, we can read in this communication, addressed to “the national community”. and internationally “.
UPC, one of the most active groups in the uprising
On Monday night, some in Bangui remained “cautious” about the concrete follow-up that will be given to this “commitment”. Considered to be the best equipped and one of the most active in the uprising, UPC is mainly present in the eastern part of the country, areas known for its mineral deposits.
Recently, during the counter-offensive led by the national army and its allied forces, Ali Darassa left his base in Bokolobo. His statement comes a few weeks after President Touadéra announced the organization of a dialogue whose outlines are still unclear. On several occasions, the head of state has ruled out any further dialogue with those responsible for the uprising.
► To read also: Central African Republic: officialization of Sidiki Abas’ death, leader of the powerful armed group 3R
.
