CAR: Fatal clashes between armed militias reported in Bangui March 2-3

Event

Clashes between two militias resulted in fatalities in the PK5 area of Bangui March 2-3. Up to 10 fatalities were reported by some sources, but this is yet to be independently verified. Clashes centered around the Ramandji area; however, the cause of the incident is currently unclear. The threat of militant violence remains severe in Bangui and across the CAR following a breakdown in relations between the central government and several armed groups over the country's recent elections.

Security forces will remain deployed as a deterrent against unrest and further violence; however, state security contingents are not effective deterrents against militia attacks. Further clashes are possible, and ground travel disruptions are likely near all incidents.

Context

Political tensions are currently elevated after opposition and armed rebel groups rejected the outcome of the first round of voting, with incumbent Faustin-Archange Touadera winning a second term as president. The election period has been marred by insecurity and a resurgence in rebel attacks on government positions and freight convoys traveling between neighboring states and the nation's capital, Bangui. Militia groups will likely continue their attacks on government forces nationwide, as rival armed factions, including the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC), attempt to pressure the administration and derail the political process. CAR security forces have also continued to conduct operations across the country, recently recapturing the towns of Bossangoa, Bossembele, Yaloke, Bossemptele, Bouar, and Beloko.