The UN has demanded rebels halt their offensive, and urged Bozize’s government to ensure the safety of civilians amid fears of a breakdown in law and order in Central Africa, one of the poorest countries on the planet.
Washington said Thursday it had evacuated its embassy and temporarily halted all operations, but the State Department said it had not broken off diplomatic ties with the beleaguered government.
The UN was also pulling out staff in response to the advances by the rebel fighters, which have alarmed residents in Bangui, fearful of looting and clashes.
A coalition of three rebel movements known as Seleka — or the “alliance” in the Sango language — has taken a string of towns, including four regional capitals, among them the garrison town and key diamond mining hub of Birao.
The coalition wants the government to fulfil the terms of peace pacts signed in 2007 and 2001, providing for disarmament and social reintegration, including pay. Bozize took power in a 2003 coup and has twice been elected into office.
At another rally organised by his supporters on Friday, about 300 women marched in Bangui to urge Seleka to stop fighting.
“Our country is in danger… People are killing our brothers in the country,” said Estelle Loka, a housewife with three children. “France has to defend us.”
In 2006, France, which supported Bozize in his rise to power, had lent logistical help and air support to fight off rebels.
While Seleka says it has no plans to move on the capital, a statement last week announcing it had suspended its advance was followed within a day by news of further rebel victories.
On Wednesday, demonstrators angry at France’s failure to intervene tore down the flag at the French embassy in Bangui and broke windows at the building.
France has around 250 soldiers based at Bangui airport providing technical support to the FOMAC peacekeeping mission, which consists of up to 500 troops from Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad and Cameroon.
As the ill-equipped Central African army proved little opposition to the insurgents, Bozize also asked for help from neighbouring Chad which sent in some troops.
About The Author
