A United Nations-backed Court in the Central African Republic has opened the trial of former President François Bozizé, who is accused of crimes against humanity linked to abuses allegedly committed by his security forces between 2009 and 2013.
The proceedings began on Tuesday, June 16, before the Special Criminal Court in Bangui. Prosecutors allege that Bozizé, as commander-in-chief of the Armed forces, bears responsibility for crimes committed by members of his presidential guard and other security personnel at a prison and military training Centre in Bossembélé, northwest of the capital.
The charges include murder, enforced disappearances, torture, rape and other inhumane acts. Bozizé, 79, is being tried in absentia after relocating to Guinea-Bissau in 2023. Authorities there have declined to extradite him despite an international arrest warrant issued in 2024.
Three former military officials — Eugène Barret Ngaïkosset, Vianney Semndiro and Firmin Junior Danboy — are also standing trial. The case marks the first time such a senior political figure has been prosecuted by the Special Criminal Court, which was established in 2015 to investigate and prosecute serious crimes committed during the country’s conflicts.
A former detainee who claims he was tortured during Bozizé’s rule said he hoped the trial would uncover the truth and deliver justice for victims, despite the former president’s absence from court.
Bozizé seized power in a 2003 coup and remained in office until 2013, when he was ousted by the predominantly Muslim Seleka rebel coalition. His removal sparked years of violence between Seleka fighters and mainly Christian Anti-balaka militias, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement.
Although a peace agreement was signed in 2019, insecurity persists, with clashes continuing between government forces, allied militias and rebel groups. Human rights organization Amnesty International said more than 30 suspects wanted by the Court in separate cases remain at large, highlighting ongoing challenges in enforcing justice in the country.