afrol News, 23 June - Central African Republic's government and two rebel groups have signed a peace accord over the weekend in Gabonese capital, Libreville.

An agreement which calls for demobilisation of all rebel fighters follows other agreements signed in February and April 2007, seeking to find a common ground for a country and also entails amnesty for rebel fighters and pledges to reintegrate them into civilian life.

Though the third rebel force, Democratic Front (FDPC) led by Mr Abdoulaye Misaine, was represented at the ceremony they did not sign the accord.

A comprehensive agreement uniting the three rebel groups and government is a precondition for the organisation of Inclusive Political Dialogue that would include all parties in country administration which was postponed pending a deal between government and three rebel groups, of which one has not signed an accord.

African Union Commission Chairman Jean Ping welcomed an accord between government and rebel groups, urging other militants to embrace the deal.

CAR Information Minister Cyriaque Gonda said upon signing the agreement, inclusive political dialogue will become a reality in the country with all measures outlined in previous agreements having been included.

"This agreement is a step in the right direction. In signing up, the parties are showing their willingness to strive towards a definitive peace and resolve the serious problems which have beset CAR for years and which require national dialogue," he added.

CAR, one of the world's poorest nations, faces a financial crisis as well as insecurity in northern territories, held hostage by rebels, bandits and highwaymen fighting with government troops ever since Bozize's victory in presidential elections in 2005.

CAR has suffered through decades of coups and military revolts since gaining independence in 1960. United Nations says unrest in the country has forced more than 300,000 people to flee their homes.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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