Central African Republic Deepens Political Alliance with Russia

 The Central African Republic (CAR) has strengthened its political ties with Russia following the signing of a cooperation agreement between the ruling United Hearts Movement (MCU), led by President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, and Russia's United Russia party, headed by President Vladimir Putin. Signed remotely, the agreement marks deepening relations between the two nations after Touadéra's recent official visit to Moscow. Key figures, including Russian Senator Andrei Klimov and CAR National Assembly President Simplice Mathieu Sarandji, played a prominent role in finalizing the deal. Among the Russian representatives was Dimitri Sityi, who is reportedly linked to Wagner Group operations in Bangui.

Objectives of the Agreement

The agreement aims to enhance collaboration between the two ruling parties through joint projects and legislative exchanges. However, critics, such as CAR opposition leader Crépin Mboli-Goumba, have raised concerns about potential threats to national sovereignty, accusing the MCU of seeking to emulate United Russia's repressive governance practices.

 Preparing for Elections

This deal highlights the evolving partnership between Bangui and Moscow as the Central African Republic gears up for its end-of-year presidential elections.