Former CAR president on trial in absentia over crimes against humanity
Summary
A special court in the Central African Republic (CAR) has started a trial without the accused present for former President Francois Bozize. He faces charges of serious crimes like murder and torture during his time in power and has been living outside the CAR since 2023.Key Facts
- Francois Bozize led a coup in 2003 and ruled CAR until rebels overthrew him in 2013.
- Bozize is charged with crimes against humanity, including murder, enforced disappearances, torture, and rape.
- The trial is happening in Bangui, CAR’s capital, at the Special Criminal Court, which has both local and foreign judges.
- An international arrest warrant was issued for Bozize in 2024.
- Three of Bozize’s former military officers are detained and awaiting trial in CAR.
- Bozize fled to several countries before settling in exile in Guinea-Bissau, which refuses to extradite him.
- The court found strong evidence linking Bozize to crimes committed by his Presidential Guard in CAR prisons and military centers.
- CAR has faced ongoing conflicts and violence since independence, with armed groups often aligned by religious or ethnic lines.
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