Catholic Bishop Nestor-Desire Nongo-Azaigbia of the Central African Republic is warning that armed groups are acquiring weapons and recruiting new members as they extend territory in the country which recovering from conflict.
According to the bishop, the president of Central African Episcopal Conference (CECA), the groups were also using violence and intimidation to frustrate voter registration for national elections set for December later this year.
The crucial elections are expected to move the country further into the path of peace, where militia Islamist militias and pro-Christian gangs control most of the country. In 2019 the government and the militia groups signed a peace agreement, which one of the key highlights were self-dissolution and disarmament.
“We have come to a point of organised armed robbery or crimes in parts of the country where it takes arms to live,” said Nongo. “Most of the armed groups are still operating, recruiting new members into their movements, extending their position in violation of the said peace agreement and acquiring arms.”
According to the bishop, the disarmament processes as mandated by the peace agreement has been feeble and has occurred only in a few place places. The bishop said in mining area [gold, diamond…etc.], and cattle rearing areas, shrew traders have organised militias and brought them arms and military uniforms The groups, he said, continued to harass innocent citizens and prevent them from going about their livelihood activities.
“The only way to successfully fight the violence is to curb those armed groups and force them into the full implementation or respect of the peace agreement they signed with the government,” said Nongo.
CAR has been in turmoil since the violent take-over of power by an Islamist coalition in 2013. The outcome saw widespread fighting between the Islamist Seleka and pro-Christian ant-Balaka. The election of President Faustin Archange Toundera in 2016 ushered a lull, but new fighting between ex-Seleka and ant-Balaka militias triggered in months. At the moment, experts warn that country is far from achieving peace.
Meanwhile, despite the threats posed by the armed groups, Christian and Muslim leaders have continued to unite to steer for peace.
Nongo said there was no “shadow” in the unity among the religious leaders and their efforts to consolidate the peace were progressing. Recently, they have focussed on sensitizing the people about the peace agreement and the forthcoming elections, according to the bishop.
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