CAR’s first Muslim PM attempt at inclusive governance

 

We should recognise that the appointment of the new prime minister, Mahamat Kamoun, by interim president, Catherine Samba-Panza, is an attempt to create a more inclusive and representative government.

 

Nonetheless, her failure to consult with both the ex-Séléka and anti-balaka groups before making the appointment has led stakeholders on both sides to reject the move. Kamoun’s rejection by ex-Seleka groups also reflects the internal struggles between the five armed groups that made up the rebel coalition.

 

To ensure his acceptance and approval by the political class in Bangui and keep the political process moving forward, the president should present her reasons for appointing Kamoun and outline his credentials as former director of cabinet affairs under Djotodia.

 

Central Africans and international observers should judge him and other key politicians on their willingness to support a wider process of dialogue and reconciliation rather than their perceived loyalties.

 

To give the political process the best chance of success, the government should consult a wide range of actors, including but not limited to anti-balaka and ex-Séléka. Indeed Central Africans need to move away from a binary view of their options and encourage the participation of multiple actors in local and national level dialogue.

 

All stakeholders should start thinking about the political processes that need to take place to pave the way for elections. They should encourage inter-communal dialogue and a national reconciliation process, which includes all parties and strong representation of civil society.

 

Conciliation Resources has been working with local religious leaders in CAR to support interfaith ‘peace committees’. Read more about these committees.

 

We also advocate for engagement with armed groups in order to foster sustainable peace. Read more about this work here.