By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

In a significant development for peace efforts in the Central African Republic (CAR), two of the country’s most powerful rebel groups—the Union for Peace in the Central African Republic (UPC) and 3R (Return, Reclamation, and Rehabilitation)—have officially agreed to disarm, dissolve their operations, and reintegrate into society. The agreement, finalized in Bangui on July 10, was witnessed by the UN peacekeeping mission MINUSCA and facilitated with support from neighboring Chad.

Leaders of both groups—Ali Darassa for UPC and General Sembé Bobo for 3R—laid down their arms during a public ceremony attended by government officials, regional representatives, and international partners. The agreement follows a ceasefire initiated in April in N’Djamena and aligns with the broader Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program already underway in the country.

UN officials cautiously welcomed the development. While nine of the 14 original armed factions have reportedly disbanded under the national peace framework established in 2019, parts of the country—especially along mineral-rich borders—remain vulnerable to insecurity and criminal activity. MINUSCA is continuing to assist with voter registration ahead of upcoming local elections and has helped open a new multi-service post along the border with Chad to improve cross-border cooperation.

Despite the breakthrough, several armed groups—including factions of the anti-Balaka militia, the MPC, and the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC)—have yet to commit to similar terms. Authorities say they are in ongoing dialogue to bring more groups under the DDR umbrella.

The timing of the disarmament is noteworthy, with local elections expected this month and national polls scheduled for 2026. Political observers say the agreement may help create a more stable environment ahead of a potential third-term bid by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra.