U.N. Plans Temporary Base In Bakouma After Rebels Withdraw

The U.N. Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) is establishing a temporary base in Bakouma after security forces regained control of the town, reports the Defense Post.

The temporary base will protect civilians and ensure the safe return of those who fled from the area due to recent violence, a U.N. spokesperson said on Jan. 17.

Government troops and U.N. peacekeepers regained control over Bakouma on Jan. 16 after members of the Popular Front for the Renaissance of the Central African Republic (FPRC), an ex-Seleka militia, departed after having held the town for two weeks, sources told Agence France-Presse. The Seleka coalition of mainly Muslim rebel groups overthrew the government in 2013. It disbanded soon after, but many fighters refused to disarm, becoming known as ex-Seleka.

On Dec. 30-31, the FPRC and the Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC), attacked Bakouma, killing at least 10 people.

More than 12,000 people fled the town after the attack, taking refuge in forests near Bakouma, the U.N. said earlier this month.

African Union-backed peace talks between the government and armed groups have been scheduled for Jan. 24 in Khartoum, Sudan, CAR President Faustin Arching Touadera announced earlier this month.