The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has extended formal congratulations to President Faustin-Archange Touadéra following his re-election as President of the Central African Republic (CAR), reaffirming the African Union’s support for the country’s ongoing peacebuilding and development efforts.
In a statement issued from Addis Ababa on 19 January 2026, the AU Commission praised the progress recorded under President Touadéra’s leadership, particularly in the areas of national security, post-conflict recovery and sustainable economic development. The Chairperson cited the implementation of the Central African Republic’s National Development Plan (2024–2028) as a key framework guiding economic recovery and institutional reform.
The African Union noted gradual but measurable improvements in the security situation across parts of the country, alongside continued efforts to restore state authority over territories previously affected by armed conflict. Particular emphasis was placed on the Disarmament, Demobilization, Reintegration and Repatriation (DDR/R) programme, which targets former combatants and armed groups as part of broader stabilization efforts.
According to the AU Commission, these developments align with the objectives of the Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic, which remains the cornerstone of national reconciliation and political normalization. The Commission described the progress made as evidence of the determination of the Central African authorities to entrench long-term peace and stability.
The Chairperson also commended the Central African population for its participation in the political process, describing the public’s engagement as a reflection of collective commitment to democratic governance, stability and the strengthening of republican institutions. This civic participation, the statement noted, is consistent with the broader continental goals outlined in the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the Silencing the Guns initiative.
Looking ahead, the AU Commission encouraged the Central African authorities to sustain momentum in securing the entire national territory, deepening democratic governance, strengthening social cohesion and advancing national reconciliation. The statement emphasized the importance of consolidating peace gains through inclusive governance, institutional capacity building and sustained dialogue among all stakeholders.
The African Union further reaffirmed its readiness to continue supporting the Central African Republic in close coordination with regional and international partners. The Commission stated that this cooperation will focus on reinforcing ongoing reforms and enabling the country to unlock its full potential in the service of peace, development and improved living standards for its citizens.
In its closing remarks, the African Union called on all concerned actors to exercise restraint, responsibility and respect for international law, stressing the need to avoid actions that could escalate tensions or undermine regional peace and stability.
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