On Tuesday, MINUSCA took control of strategic points in the city of Ndele, in the Bamingui Bangoran prefecture (northeast of the Central African Republic), after FPRC elements (Ex-Seleka coalition) raised a flag last night at the local police station (Gendarmerie).

MINUSCA and its strategic partners will continue to secure the electoral process as planned to ensure that the Central African population can safely cast their ballots in the upcoming polls.

MINUSCA commends the Central Africans for the bravery and determination they showed in Bangui neighborhoods of PK5 and Boye Rabe as well as throughout the country as an expression of their right to vote and freely decide on the future of their country despite the threats of spoilers.

MINUSCA warns FPRC and any other armed group not to try to disrupt the peace process and derail the elections in Ndele, Bossangoa or anywhere else throughout the national territory.

MINUSCA also condemns FPRC statement in which they declared the North-eastern region’s autonomy and will use all means available, including the use of force, against any separatist attempt in accordance with its mandate.

MINUSCA recalls that as a result of operations conducted in some neighborhoods of Bangui in coordination with the Central African internal security forces and Sangaris, as well as in the rest of the country, the referendum did take place. MINUSCA Force Commander visited Kaga Bandoro to oversee the operations by MINUSCA Force that allowed voters in Kaga Bandoro and Ndele to cast their ballots. In Bossangoa, the vote took place in 29 out of 35 polling stations.

MINUSCA, the United Nations system and the international community stand by the transitional authorities and the Central African people as they move towards the return to constitutional order and stability.