News in the Central African Republic continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with recent developments that could change the situation in the country. In a press release released this Friday, November 3, Mahamat Al-Khatim, leader of the Patriotic Movement for the Central African Republic (MPC), announced his desire to reintegrate the Khartoum agreement signed in February 2019 with the government. This change of direction follows the declarations of President Touadéra on the possibility of a permanent dialogue with the armed groups, as well as the call of the head of the United Nations mission for a new dialogue during the Security Council of the UN.
This decision by the MPC could potentially influence other rebel groups to follow the reintegration movement. MPC leaders believe that if the Central African government keeps its promises this time, it could pave the way for a disarmament-demobilization (DDR) process for combatants. Despite his life sentence in September, Mahamat Al-Khatim remains open to discussions with the Central African authorities.
However, some rebel coalition officials question Mahamat Al-Khatim’s influence on the ground, saying he has lost control of his men. Moreover, few fighters would be inclined to follow him in what they describe as “rallying”. Recently, several MPC members were killed in an attack by Russian forces near a mining site in the north of the country, which also weakened the group’s position.
Overall, this announcement from the MPC arouses a certain optimism regarding possible progress towards the resolution of the conflict in the Central African Republic. However, it is important to note that obstacles and challenges remain numerous. Stakeholders, including Angola, the African Union and ECCAS, must work closely together to ensure the success of the reintegration process and disarmament of armed groups. It remains to be seen whether other militia leaders will follow the MPC’s lead and commit to peacefully resolving the conflict in the Central African Republic. The future of the country depends largely on the commitment and willingness of all parties involved to find a lasting solution.