Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangui (Agenzia Fides) - The formation of a national unity government has not yet put an end to the instability in the Central African Republic. According to local media, the rebels Seleka of the coalition, which received some important ministries in the new government (such as Defense) continue to commit violence in some areas of the Country. A political scientist at the University of Bangui, interviewed by Centrafriquepress says that the fighting groups acting on the ground and the leaders of Seleka are not able to control their men. The expert said that the leaders of Seleka must contact their troops throughout the country, to explain to them the meaning of the Libreville agreements on 11 January, which gave birth to the government of national unity.
One of the areas where one feels more the weight of instability falls within the territory of Kaga Bandoro, whose Bishop, His Exc. Mgr. Albert Vanbuel, launched an appeal to "Aid to the Church in Need."
The diocese Kaga Bandoro, is on the road which from Chad and Sudan leads to the Central African capital and is "a necessary step for the many dissident factions in our Country," is what is said in a note sent to Fides Agency. Seleka rebels came to Kaga Bandoro a few days before Christmas. After the town hall, prefecture and the court, on January 16 the archbishopric was also robbed. The rebels also raided the reserves of grain and cassava fields and set fire to the only fuel depot in the region.
According to FAO estimates, hundreds of thousands of people have fled into the bush following the fighting and destruction of their homes. The Diocese of Kaga Bandoro has received more than 450. Most of the population is severely malnourished, sick and without access to medical care. The few health facilities still open have run out of medicines or have been looted. The Church is the only reference point for the local population. But the needs are many and the few resources available have already finished. Aid to the Church in Need has immediately responded to the call of Mgr. Vanbuel with an initial contribution of €40 thousand. (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides 12/02/2013)
