Central African Republic: improvements made but challenges remain

(Vatican Radio) The head of the U.N. mission to Central African Republic has told the U.N. Security Council that the transition to democracy in the country, which descended into sectarian violence in December 2013, has reached ``a critical stage.''

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Addressing the UN Security Council General Babacar Gaye said the electoral process in the Central African Republic is facing challenges including registering people displaced by the fighting as well as refugees who fled to neighbouring countries.

He also urged international donors to contribute over $20 million to finance elections in the country this summer, and help its impoverished people.

President Catherine Samba-Panza is now in charge of a transitional government that, along with a U.N. peacekeeping force and French troops, is trying to stabilize the African nation.

But despite the challenges General Gaye noted that there was room for optimism.

“The situation is improving in the CAR but despite these improvements we are still confronted with violence against the population… but things are moving…”

At least 5,000 people have been killed since mostly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power in 2013.