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The United Nations has called for accountability in the Central African Republic (CAR) after uncovering grave human rights violations committed by armed groups, including one allegedly linked to the national army.
In a newly released report, the UN Human Rights Office and the UN mission in CAR (MINUSCA) emphasized that justice is crucial to preventing future atrocities.
Coordinated Attacks Leave Dozens Dead
The report details two waves of attacks in Mbomou and Haut-Mbomou prefectures between October 2023 and January 2024, resulting in at least 24 deaths, including summary executions.
The violence was directed and coordinated by members of Wagner Ti Azandé (WTA), an armed group with ties to the national army, alongside fighters from Azandé Ani Kpi Gbé, another militant faction.
UN officials say Muslim communities, Sudanese refugees, and asylum seekers were particularly targeted.
Evidence of Torture, Sexual Violence, and Looting
According to Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the UN has documented horrific abuses, including:
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Gang rape and other forms of sexual violence
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Forced labor and torture
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Cruel, inhumane, and degrading treatment
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Looting of homes and businesses
“These horrible crimes must not go unpunished,” Al-Kheetan said, adding that the UN stands ready to work with CAR authorities to promote human rights and combat impunity.
Calls for Transparency and Disarmament
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged full transparency regarding the WTA’s connections to the army and called for the group’s disarmament if these ties cannot be clarified.
“If this is not possible, the group should be disarmed,” he said.
Decades of Instability and a Growing Humanitarian Crisis
The Central African Republic has suffered from decades of instability, with communal violence often fueled by ethnic and religious divisions.
The ongoing conflict has displaced one in five people, either internally or as refugees, and devastated essential infrastructure, including schools and hospitals.
In response to the violence, MINUSCA has intensified efforts to protect civilians and support the restoration of state authority in affected regions.
With impunity fueling the cycle of violence, the UN’s demand for justice and accountability could be a critical step toward long-term stability in CAR.
