Rarely have parliamentary sessions attracted so many people.  Besides the MPs and their supporters, ordinary citizens attended this crucial moment in the country’s democratic life. On May 3, within the grounds of the National Assembly in Bangui, the new members -- who had been elected by the Central African people in a fair and transparent process to end the transition period --, gathered for the first time.

"This is once again a victory for democracy in Central Africa following r the success of the electoral process," said Aaron Grengbo, a law student.

This session opening happened one month after the inauguration of the Head of State, Faustin Archange Touadéra, on March 30.  It marked a new stage in the establishment of the newly elected authorities. This electoral process was made ​​possible through the involvement of the transitional authorities with the support of the international community, including MINUSCA.  And, of course, due to f the massive mobilization of the Central African people.

MINUSCA has ensured that the entire electoral process -- from the census to the organization of the various elections – was safe and secure.  The peacekeeping mission also provided technical and logistical support to the National Electoral Authority (NEA). "During one of the voting days, we came under fire at km 5. The deployment of the peacekeepers allowed us to fulfill our civic duty. This action once again demonstrated MINUSCA’s determination and commitment to support the resolution of the crisis", recalled Abdoukarim Meckassoua, an MP from Bangui.

To date, 128 MPs among a total of 140 have been elected for a 5-year mandate. By-elections will be held on 15 May, with the support of MINUSCA, to complete the process.

The elected officials know that their task will be immense. "We have to face the challenge of development.  The Central Africans have embraced democracy and we must not disappoint them," said Emilie Beatrice Epaye, an MP for Markounda.

In the coming days, the new Assembly will appoint the Executive Board members and, on Friday, elect their Chairman.