UN Demands Accountability for Human Rights Violations in Central African Republic

The United Nations has called for accountability in the Central African Republic (CAR) following a pattern of grave human rights violations committed by armed groups. In a newly released report, the UN Human Rights Office and the MINUSCA peacekeeping mission stressed that accountability is essential to prevent such violations from recurring.

The report details two waves of attacks in the Mbomou and Haut-Mbomou prefectures in October 2023 and January 2024, resulting in at least 24 deaths, including summary executions. The Wagner Ti Azandé (WTA) group, linked to the national army, was identified as a key perpetrator. The attacks also involved Azandé Ani Kpi Gbé, a related armed group.

According to Thameen Al-Kheetan, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the armed groups, including one affiliated with the military, targeted Muslim communities, Sudanese refugees, and asylum-seekers.

Key documented crimes include Sexual violence, including gang rape, forced labor and torture cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, Looting of homes and businesses

“These horrible crimes must not go unpunished,” Al-Kheetan stated, reaffirming the UN’s commitment to working with authorities to uphold human rights and combat impunity.

Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, urged full transparency regarding WTA’s actions and its ties to the national army.

“If this is not possible,” Türk stated, “the group should be disarmed.’

CAR has long suffered from instability and violence, with one in five people displaced due to ongoing conflict. The crisis has devastated schools, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure.

In response to the recent violence, MINUSCA has intensified efforts to protect civilians and restore state authority in the affected regions.