Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma says the future of the Central African Republic (CAR) should be that of law and order, stability, safety, and respect for human rights.
“There can never be peace and prosperity without stability. All of us here today should spare no effort in finding a solution that will bring about the stability of the entire Central African Region,” Zuma said in Brazzaville, DRC, on Friday.
He was speaking at an International Contact Group meeting to discuss the situation in CAR.
African leaders have been trying to restore stability in CAR since the Seleka rebels staged a coup in March to topple that country’s government led by President François Bozizé.
At least 13 South Africa soldiers died in running battles with the rebel forces in what became known as the battle for Bangui.
Today Zuma said reports of the attempted forceful change of government in the sister country of Chad were disturbing.
“It will become even more urgent that the regional leadership of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) finds a solution to the chronic instability of the region.
“We call on all those in positions of responsibility and leadership to ensure that the needless suffering of the people in the Central African Republic is brought to an end.”
Zuma said as the continent marked the 50th anniversary of the Organization of African Unity (the forerunner of the AU) this month, leaders owed it to themselves and generations to come to continue working tirelessly until “we achieve peace, stability and prosperity in Africa”.
He urged African leaders in the meeting to do whatever they can to assist in stabilising the situation in the Central African Republic.
Ultimately, a stable peaceful and prosperous CAR is going to contribute to the wellbeing of the entire Central African region and the African continent. – SAnews.gov.za
