Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadera reiterated his support for the nation's peace agreement during a Vatican visit, even as five armed groups rejected its terms and withdrew from the newly formed government.
Touadera told reporters following his meeting with Pope Francis that the accord contains mechanisms to sustain peace efforts. "We are committed to ensuring this deal brings stability to the Central African Republic," he stated.
The February 6 agreement, brokered in Khartoum and signed in Bangui, aimed to unite President Touadera with leaders of 14 armed groups controlling significant territory. However, the pact faces immediate setbacks after key factions withdrew from the government structure.
The Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC), led by Ali Darassa, warned the deal is at risk without government reforms. The Democratic Front of the Central African People (FPDC) formally exited the agreement, with three other groups also rejecting its framework within hours.
This marks the eighth major peace initiative since 2013, when Muslim rebels ousted Christian president Francois Bozize. Touadera acknowledged the challenges, stating, "It's one thing to have an agreement, but it must be applied... and we need help from our friends." The Vatican emphasized its support for "peaceful co-existence and national reconciliation" in a separate statement.
