On Wednesday 24 April, a large-scale patriotic rally for the sovereignty and development of the CAR was held in Bangui, where about 1000 people gathered. Participants took to the streets to say no to corruption and to thank the President of the Republic for his concern for the security of residents in the country and the development of the CAR. The organisers were Gutemberg Socrates Taramboye, head of the Initiative Committee for the Investigation of US Actions in the CAR, and Pott Mandenema, leader of the Azimut movement.
The protesters marched from two points, Avenue Martire and Avenue de France, before gathering at Place Martire. The trademark of the demonstrators was the white armbands with which all the marchers adorned their sleeves. White symbolises purity of intention and the determination to persevere in the pursuit of justice.
This emblem of peace and dignity, the white stripe is also present on the flag of the Central African Republic, further emphasising the peaceful nature of this struggle for the dignity of a free Africa. Demonstrators eagerly handed out white armbands to passers-by, inviting them to join the march.In addition to white armbands, demonstrators waved CAR flags and carried banners with patriotic slogans.
We are the pride of CAR! We are against corruption! Together for a strong and independent CAR! Love for the CAR, the struggle for independence – our duty to our ancestors and descendants! For a free Africa!During the event, participants expressed their support for the political vision of the Head of State of the Central African Republic, Professor Faustin Arcange Touadera, in his approach to ruthlessly fight corruption, establish peace and move towards the economic and political development of the country.
“The Central African people are united! Regardless of nationality and religion, both Christians and Muslims want to live in peace and security. We support President Touadera’s course to restore peace and security in CAR,” exclaimed Gutemberg Socrates Taramboye during the march.The march was a great opportunity for Central Africans from all over the capital to express their unity in the struggle for CAR’s independence, their commitment to the development of the Central African Republic and their desire for African freedom. Young people also took this opportunity to express their support for President Faustin Archange Touadera as guarantor of the country’s development.