By Lawrence Audu
The French Army is leaving the Central African Republic completely and definitively after more than 60 years of presence and influence.
Recall that French President Emmanuel Macron had in 2016 put an end to the Sangaris operation initiated in 2013 by Francois Hollande which resulted partly in ending tensions. Then it was the end of the French mission in Boali.
Sources have indicated to the New National Star that, Macron will announce the final departure of the 130 French soldiers based at Bangui Mpoko airport.
For Dr. Martial PABANJI this is the realization of the dream of the Ivorian singer Alpha Blondy “French Army go away, we don’t want you anymore…”?
“The big question now is if it is really the growing Russian influence that prompted the departure of all French soldiers from the Central African Republic as well as the closure or bankruptcy of French companies in the Country?
“Obviously, Paris has not put on gloves to adjust its relations with its former colony. Even if the accreditation of a closest relative and collaborator of the President of the Central African Republic as Ambassador in Paris and the release of State visas for work and cooperation have resurfaced, sending a sign of appeasement and adjacent reconciliation, it does not no longer any doubt, the CAR marks the beginning of the end of France-Africa.
“Will Macron keep his word for the start of a new fair cooperation in respect of the rights of peoples and the independence of their African leaders?
“In any case, let’s cross our fingers to see if after this storm will come the good weather!” Dr. Pabanji adds.
For most of the aged who saw the French arrive here while they were yet kids and having to live through raising their great grand children even as French troops recycled themselves, remains the initial beautiful images of the French army which accompanied them in the provinces.
It is now incumbent on the Central African Defence Forces FACA and their allies to step up their game to protect the people.