Former CAR Leader Bozize Linked To Massi Case

A witness at a United Nations-backed court in the Central African Republic has accused former president François Bozizé of involvement in the disappearance and presumed death of former government minister Charles Massi, who later became an opposition figure.

Bozize is being tried in absentia by the Special Criminal Court (SCC) in Bangui over alleged crimes against humanity committed between 2009 and 2013. The former leader, who is now 79, has denied wrongdoing.

During proceedings on Monday, Massi’s former partner, Hortense Balley Kombet, testified before the court and directly implicated Bozize in the case, according to an AFP journalist present at the hearing.

Tanker Crash Kills Eight in Central African Republic

Massi served as a minister under Bozize’s administration before turning against the government. He disappeared in 2010 and has since been presumed dead.

Balley Kombet told the judges that Massi was reportedly arrested by Chadian authorities while he was attempting to join an armed group operating in the Central African Republic at the time. She said he was later exchanged for a Chadian rebel and handed over to members of the Central African presidential guard.

According to her testimony, Massi was tortured and killed after being transferred to the custody of the presidential guard.

The allegations against Bozize also involve three of his former senior military officers: Eugene Barret Ngaikosset, Vianney Semndiro and Firmin Junior Danboy. The four men are accused of crimes linked to a civilian prison and a military training centre in the central town of Bossembele.

Biya Appoints General to Head Presidential Guard

Bozize came to power in a 2003 coup before being removed from office a decade later by rebel forces. He has lived in exile in Guinea-Bissau since 2023.

The SCC, a hybrid court made up of Central African and international judges, was established to investigate serious crimes committed in the country since 2003, including war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The Central African Republic has experienced repeated conflicts, political instability and authoritarian rule since gaining independence from France in 1960.

Author

Tope Oke

Temitope is a storyteller driven by a passion for the intricate world of geopolitics, the raw beauty of wildlife, and the dynamic spirit of sports. As both a writer and editor, he excels at crafting insightful and impactful narratives that not only inform but also inspire and advocate for positive change. Through his work, he aims to shed light on complex issues, celebrate diverse perspectives, and encourage readers to engage with the world around them in a more meaningful way.