Central African Republic: Seleka rebels agree to peace talks
Rebels in the Central African Republic said yesterday they were suspending their advance and would hold peace talks with the government, after regional armies sent reinforcements to stop them reaching the capital.
The Seleka rebel coalition’s lightning three-week advance from the north of the country to within striking distance of the capital Bangui in the south has raised fears of a spreading crisis and drawn regional calls for negotiations with the government in the Gabonese capital Libreville.
“I confirm that we have decided to suspend the offensive towards Bangui, and that we will send a delegation to Gabon to participate in peace talks,” said rebel spokesman Eric Massi.