Central African Republic - talk of genocide already

The French military are set to deploy to the Central African Republic (CAR) by the end of this month.  If the UN security council vote on a resolution allowing for international intervention into the current crisis in the CAR is passed today, it is certain to happen.  

Will this be too late for the people of the CAR ? The word "genocide" is already being banded around because of the religious and ethnic attacks which have taken place.

Earlier this week, at least 12 people from a mainly Muslim community north of Bangui were killed and 30 wounded in an attack blamed on Christian militiamen known as "anti-balaka".

This morning, shooting and heavy arms fire has been heard in the capital of the CAR, Bangui. The BBC is reporting that the city has been attacked by supporters of President Francois Bozize, who was ousted by rebels in March. 

The security environment in the CAR has greatly deteriorated in recent months since rebels from the Seleka coalition toppled the regime of former president, Francois Bozize, on 24 March of this year. Despite the establishment of an interim transitional government headed by former rebel leader, Michel Djotodia, the subsequent disbanding of the rebel alliance by Djotodia has significantly aggravated insecurity. 

Although a bolstered international troop presence in the CAR may bode well for long-term stabilisation in the country, an immediate improvement in the overall security environment is deemed unlikely. 

The crisis has affected an entire population of 4.6m people; 10% have fled their homes, 25% need food aid and an unknown number killed - several hundred in one area in two weeks. 3,500 children are soldiers and most schools and hospitals outside the capital have been looted and are not functional, according to the UN.

The African Union (AU) is battling to contain the conflict. with its 2,500 African peacekeepers and 400 French troops in country, It looks like these troops will be increased to 3,600 and 1,200 respectively by the end of December.

RPS now advises against all travel to the CAR at the moment.  Those who are already in the CAR are advised to implement robust personal, travel and residential security measures at all times. Travellers should also ensure that they have clear contingencies in place, so that they can evacuate in an emergency, should the situation deteriorate any further.

If you require any advice, please contact us at [email protected]

Sources: Red24, BBC

Photos: BBC