Monday, March 25, 2013

SA Troops killed in Central African Republic



What happened? 13 South Africans were killed on the weekend in the Central African Republic. 27 were wounded. Apparently they were there to train President Francois Bozize's army as part of an old agreement. Put another way, to support them. Convenient double speak. Who took the decision to pick a side in what was meant to be a power sharing deal that 'Boz' reneged upon? And why? The Libreville Accord set a time period to integrate the Seleka Rebel Coalition into the army, plus send SA troops home. Nothing happened. 'Boz' focused on staying in power by strengthening his army. So the 2000 + rebels had enough, massed forces from their 5 diverse groups, and advanced on Bangui, intent on ousting him. 'Boz' flew out to the Cameroon. And a pointless firefight ensued, killing South Africans left behind defending their base on the outskirts of the capital. A rebel white flag was raised a few hours into the battle. With their objective achieved, there was no point in continuing. Michel Djotodia has taken over with a view to elections in 3 years, the regional forces of Chad, Gabon and Congo remain, coordinating a regional peace force, and France expediently continues their involvement in a country rich in uranium, diamonds and gold. Business as usual.
Whose fight were they fighting? So sad...
Deon
Twitter: deon_bing
(pic - Reuters)

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