Hundreds of people participated in a peaceful march in Bangui, Central African Republic, on November 13, 2026, to denounce the high cost of living and demand the release of five activists arrested on October 15. The march, organized by the Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution, started at 6 am and proceeded along the Avenue des Martyrs in the capital city. Despite the rain, protesters showed determination as they marched to the rhythm of the national anthem and patriotic songs.
The protesters expressed their frustration with the rising cost of living, which they say has made it difficult for them to afford basic necessities. Samson Ngaïbona, a leader of the Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution, said that the price of a kilogram of meat had increased from 1,500 to 4,500 francs CFA, while a liter of oil had risen from 1,000 to 2,500 francs CFA. He also criticized the government's handling of healthcare, saying that many Central Africans are dying due to lack of proper care.
The march was escorted by UN peacekeepers from the Minusca mission and Central African security forces. The protesters carried banners demanding the release of five activists, including Élysée Nguémalé and Quentin Ngouando, who were arrested after calling for a "dead city" day on October 12. The activists are being held at the Camp de Roux military site in Bangui. The protesters' demands also included a reduction in the price of fuel, which they say is the highest in the franc CFA zone.
Crépin Mboli-Goumba, coordinator of the Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution, addressed the protesters, saying that the government must take action to address their concerns. He demanded that the price of fuel be reduced to 850 francs CFA and that the government restore the rule of law and democracy, which he said were under threat. Mboli-Goumba also criticized the justice system, saying that it only serves the interests of the powerful.
The Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution is a coalition of several opposition parties that aims to promote democracy and human rights in Central African Republic. The bloc's leaders say that they will continue to mobilize until their demands are met. The protest was peaceful, with no major incidents reported.
The high cost of living in Central African Republic has been a major challenge for many citizens, who struggle to afford basic necessities. The country has also faced criticism for its human rights record, with many opposition figures and activists facing arrest and detention. The government's response to the protests has not been announced.
The protest in Bangui highlights the ongoing challenges facing Central African Republic, including poverty, insecurity, and human rights abuses. The government's ability to address these challenges will be crucial in determining the country's stability and future.
Key points
- The protesters demanded a reduction in the price of fuel and the release of activists arrested for calling a "dead city" day.
