The G8-CAR welcomes the enthusiasm of the population, which massively voted in the 13 December referendum and the commitment of the transitional authorities: the Presidency, the National Transitional Council (CNT), and the government, as well as other institutions of the Republic, including the National Election Authority (ANE), the Constitutional Court, the High Authority for Communications and the Consultative Framework, which despite difficulties ensured the best possible conditions for the organization and conduct of the referendum, with the support of the United Nations and the international community.

The G8-CAR also notes that those who used violence to oppose the referendum unfortunately managed to prevent people who wished to exercise their right to vote in a number of localities to do so. Those who attempted to disrupt the process did so by throwing grenades and using firearms, and by positioning armed men in front of  some polling stations, threatening citizens and destroying electoral material. Far from representing the population, these groups have tried to take the electoral process hostage, essentially denying the people of CAR their right to democratically express their views.

The G8-CAR understands that in many areas where voting was disturbed, in Bangui in particular, residents found the courage to exercise their right to vote with the support of the Internal Security Forces, MINUSCA and Sangaris. The G8-CAR regrets that voting has not been possible everywhere in the country. Two people were killed and several were injured by these criminal elements. The G8-CAR presents its condolences to the families and relatives of the victims, condemns these criminal acts and will ensure that they do not remain unpunished. Finally, the G8-CAR reiterates the determination of the international community that citizens throughout the country are able to express themselves through the democratic process.

The G8-CAR is pleased that the vast majority of the population was able to peacefully cast their ballots and congratulates the many Central Africans who participated in the elections despite threats to the process.

The G8-CAR also welcomes the political will demonstrated by the population and encourages the authorities to continue their efforts in support of the upcoming presidential and legislative elections scheduled on 27 December 2015 (1st round) and 31 January 2016 (second round). The international community reaffirms its full support of the election process.