Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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October 28, 2025 Peace and security
Speaking at the UN Security Council on Tuesday, the Secretary-General's Special Representative for the Central African Republic (CAR), Valentina Rugwabiza, presented an updated report on the situation in the country, highlighting the achievements of the UN Stabilization Mission in the CAR (MINUSCA) and calling for its mandate to be extended amid ongoing regional instability.
Peace process: steps forward
According to Rugwabiza, the peace process has made significant progress since the signing of the ceasefire agreement on April 19 between the CAR government and the most active armed groups. Ceremonies were held in July and October at which group leaders confirmed their return to the political agreement. As a result, 11 of the 14 signatories to the peace agreement have now officially disarmed.
MINUSCA actively supports the disarmament and demobilization process. Since July, more than 700 rebels have laid down their arms thanks to the mission's technical, logistical, and other support.
Preparing for the elections: progress and challenges
The presidential, parliamentary, regional, and municipal elections scheduled for December 28 are seen as a key moment for strengthening state authority and institutional stability. The National Electoral Agency has completed voter registration, adding over 2.3 million people to the voter lists, nearly half of whom are women.
The CAR government has allocated an additional $7.8 million to the electoral fund, but a funding gap of $12 million remains. Rugwabiza called on international partners to urgently fill this gap to ensure the timely and secure conduct of the vote.
Security Threats: The Impact of Conflict in Sudan
Despite improvements in several regions, the eastern and northeastern prefectures of the Central African Republic remain vulnerable. In October, Rugwabiza visited border areas where the impact of the conflict in neighboring Sudan has intensified. Border crossings by armed groups have led to the mass displacement of civilians. MINUSCA has strengthened its protection of civilians and facilitated the return of displaced persons to their communities.
Regional cooperation and government support
On September 27, a joint CAR-Chad force was formed in Chad, marking an important step towards ensuring security on the shared border.
MINUSCA continues to support local governors and prefects, particularly in remote border areas, but additional international support is needed to ensure a successful handover of security responsibilities to national forces.
Financial difficulties and a call for an extension of the mandate
MINUSCA has faced funding cuts, forcing the mission to begin cost-cutting measures by 15 percent in the current financial year. This includes staff reductions and curtailing operations, which, according to Rugwabiza, jeopardizes the mission's mandate during a critical period.
The Secretary-General's Special Representative called on the Security Council to extend MINUSCA's mandate for another year, emphasizing that the mission remains a key element in ensuring peace and stability not only in the CAR but throughout the region.
In closing, Rugwabiza expressed her gratitude to all MINUSCA staff, troop- and police-contributing countries, and humanitarian and donor organizations for their contribution to peace and security in the Central African Republic.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.