U.S. Issues Statement on Central African Republic

Press Statement
John Kirby
Department of State Spokesperson
Washington, DC
September 28, 2015

The United States condemns in the strongest terms the continuing violence in Bangui, Central African Republic, that started on Friday, September 25. We offer our condolences to the families of those killed.

We call upon those who engaged in violence, or are considering further violence, to lay down their weapons and return home. Those guilty of committing or inciting violence, including leaders of anti-Balaka militias and ex-Seleka groups, must be held accountable for their actions. We fully support the efforts of the Central African and international forces to reestablish order and bring these perpetrators to justice. The era during which such individuals have been able to carry out their malevolent actions with impunity must come to an end.

We express our full support for President Catherine Samba-Panza and her transitional government. We further support the ongoing transition process, including efforts to ensure that all eligible Central Africans have the right to vote in upcoming elections, and pledge continued U.S. assistance in support of the ongoing transition.

The United States remains committed to helping the Central African Republic establish the peace and stability its citizens deserve. It is only with peace and stability that job creation, economic development, and prosperity will ultimately be possible for current and future generations of Central Africans.