The Central African Republic’s opposition coalition, the Republican Bloc for the Defence of the Constitution (BRDC), has given the government 14 days to respond to its demands following a demonstration in the capital, Bangui, on November 13. Former Prime Minister Martin Ziguélé announced the deadline on behalf of the coalition, warning that another march would be organised if the authorities fail to provide a satisfactory response, according to The African Street Journal.
Hundreds of people took part in the demonstration, calling for action over the rising cost of living and fuel prices. The march was authorised by the authorities and monitored by security forces and United Nations peacekeepers.
The BRDC has presented five main demands: the release of five civil society leaders detained in October, a reduction in the petrol price to 850 CFA francs per litre, an end to fuel shortages, publication of the government's agreement with petroleum supplier Neptune Oil, and guarantees of freedom of expression.
Petrol currently costs around 1,150 CFA francs per litre, according to Africanews. The proposed reduction would therefore represent a significant cut for consumers.
The demonstration came amid continuing tensions between opposition groups and the authorities over economic conditions and the detention of civil society figures. The government had not publicly responded to the coalition's latest demands as of November 14.
