CAR: MINUSCA forces retake Bambari Dec. 23 amid increasing pre-election tensions /update 1

Event

On Dec. 23, government forces supported by the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) recaptured the city of Bambari, capital of Ouaka prefecture. Bambari was seized by the Unit for Peace (UPC) militia, led by Ali Darassa, after fierce clashes with government forces Dec. 22. According to a Dec. 23 MINUSCA statement, all rebel forces have been driven out of Bambari, facilitating the return of residents displaced by the conflict.

Bambari is located 380 km(240 miles) northeast of the capital, Bangui.

Bangui

An increased security presence in Bangui has been reported as of Dec. 18 following reports that various militia groups were attempting to advance on the city. Security forces could implement measures, including increased street patrols or a curfew if the situation deteriorates further. Security protocols will likely prompt localized transport disruptions in the city. Any clashes that materialize will likely have a significant impact on those operating in the affected area. Under such circumstances, threats to personal safety, and transportation disruptions are likely.

Context

Clashes in Bambari follow reports of heavy fighting between rebels and government-aligned forces in the Ouham-Pende, Ombella-M'Poko, Lobaye, and Ouaka prefectures since Dec. 18. Rebels attacked various towns on highways leading to Bangui, including Bozoumm, Yaloke, and Bossembele, along the RN1 highway; Mbaiki on the RN6 southwest of Bangui, and on roads to the northeast of Bangui leading to Bambari.

Militia groups have drastically increased the scale of attacks against government and MINUSCA forces in recent days ahead of the planned presidential and legislative elections Dec. 27. On Dec. 18 a rebel coalition threatened to use any means necessary to disrupt the polls, accusing the government of rigging the elections after the country's highest court rejected the candidacy of Francois Bozize for the upcoming polls.

The coalition, calling itself the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC) includes the Retour, Reclamation and Rehabilitation (3R) militia led by General Abass Sidiki, Ali Darassa's UPC, the Patriotic Movement for the Central African Republic (MPC) of Mahamat al-Khatim, the Popular Front for the Renaissance of Central African Republic (FPRC) of General Noureddine Adam, and several unspecified anti-balaka groups. Armed groups are seeking to capitalize on the planned elections to increase their pressure on the government or form alliances with political parties as part of efforts to achieve their aims.

Advice

Avoid the city until the security situation stabilizes; if operating in the area is unavoidable, remain vigilant and seek updated information about fighting before embarking on any destination outside of Bangui. Leave the area immediately if fighting erupts nearby; heed authorities' orders and maintain contact with your host and diplomatic mission. Allow additional time for travel to mitigate possible security-related delays. Plan for communication and business disruptions if operating in areas affected by the internet outage. Consider alternative modes of communication.