Joint Press Statement by International, Regional Organizations on Elections in Central African Republic

The United Nations, African Union, Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), European Union and the International Organization of La Francophonie welcome the final results of the second round of the presidential elections in the Central African Republic announced by the Transitional Constitutional Court on 1 March 2016, which were conducted peacefully with the active participation of the Central African people.

They congratulate the President-elect, Faustin-Archange Touadéra, and express their support for his determination to further the efforts to promote dialogue and national reconciliation.

The United Nations, African Union, ECCAS, European Union and the International Organization Francophonie also pay tribute to Anicet-Georges Dologuélé and to the Central African people, who have demonstrated their commitment to efforts to find durable solutions in support of peace, reconciliation, and economic and social development in the Central African Republic.

They welcome the essential role played by the Transitional Authority in support of a return to peace.  They reiterate their commitment to continue efforts to support the completion of the transition, including through the holding of the second round of legislative elections.  The organizations recall that the people of the Central African Republic have high expectations that the completion of the transition will bring real change.  They underline that the new authorities of the Central African Republic have an important opportunity and a responsibility to ensure further progress towards peace and security, justice and reconciliation, and social cohesion, as well as reconstruction and development.

The international community will continue to lend its support to the efforts of the new Central African Republic authorities through a responsible partnership.