United Nations (TDI): Pakistan on Thursday hailed the holding of combined presidential, legislative, regional, and municipal elections in the Central African Republic last December, while cautioning the UN Security Council that the country’s hard-won gains remain fragile and require sustained support.
Speaking in a debate on the situation in CAR, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, deputy permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, said the elections, conducted with logistical, technical, and security support from the UN peacekeeping mission MINUSCA, reaffirm the mission’s relevance as both a stabilizer and enabler of political processes.
Ambassador Jadoon noted progress under the 2019 Political Agreement, including disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) of armed groups. However, he warned that residual armed elements, persistent volatility in the east and southeast, and spillover from Sudan continue to threaten stability. Strengthening national defense and internal security forces, extending state authority, and advancing justice and reconciliation remain critical for lasting peace.
Pakistan, which contributes more than 1,200 uniformed personnel to MINUSCA, expressed concern over delayed reimbursements for troop and equipment costs, cautioning that financial shortfalls undermine both peacekeeping operations and the Security Council’s mandate. Jadoon stressed a conditions-based transition aligned with CAR’s priorities, aimed at consolidating recent gains rather than risking their reversal.
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“We reaffirm our unwavering support for CAR’s sovereignty and for MINUSCA, and will continue working with partners to advance lasting peace and stability in the country,” he said.
UN Special Representative Valentine Rugwabiza also briefed the council, noting that the 28 December 2025 polls marked a major milestone in consolidating peace and state authority. Despite isolated security incidents, voting was peaceful and secure across most of the country. Incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera secured a third term, and elections reflected progress in inclusion, with women accounting for more than 47% of voters and 45% of municipal candidates.
Read More: Pakistan Welcomes Central African Republic’s Electoral Preparations
Since July 2025, over 1,200 combatants have been disarmed and demobilized, with additional armed groups returning to the political process, demonstrating the continuing relevance of the 2019 Political Agreement in CAR’s stabilization efforts.
