By CISA
BANGUI, JANUARY 12, 2021 (CISA)– Bishop Nestor-Désiré Nongo-Aziagbia, President of the Episcopal Conference of Central African Republic has warned that there could be a food shortage in the county due to the ongoing conflicts in parts of the country between the rebels and government forces that has forced citizens to flee to neighbouring countries.
“Our country faces a turbulent time, with intensified armed clashes between a rebel coalition and the Central African armed forces …the main supply route from Cameroon was occupied, causing shortages and surging prices. People were being displaced from their homes as they sought shelter and took precautions,” the bishop Bossangoa Diocese said, according to LaCroix.
The prelate noted that the conflict has risked turning into a nationwide hunt for innocent people, based solely on their ethnicity or political affiliation.
“I’m following with attention and concern events in Central African Republic, where elections were recently held and people expressed their desire to continue on the path to peace. Therefore, I invite all sides to a fraternal and respectful dialogue, to reject hatred and avoid all forms for violence,” Pope Francis said after leading prayers for the feast of Epiphany.
CAR’s December 27 2020 elections was marred by a coordinated offensive carried out by rebel groups who tried to disrupt the vote after the Constitutional Court rejected former President Francois Bozize’s candidacy.
The National Elections Authority said January 4 the presidential ballot had been won by incumbent Faustin-Archange Touadéra, with over 53 percent. Opposition groups however cited irregularities in the elections.
