NEW YORK
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has appealed to Muslims and Christians in the Central Africa Republic (CAR) to end bloodshed in the strife-torn country.
“I am deeply troubled by what is happening in your country and I want to speak to you personally,” Ban said in a radio appeal.
“Too many people are scared and the country is on the brink of ruin. I appeal to everyone to follow the path of peace. The bloodshed must stop. Do not allow the voices of hatred to sow division where none existed before. Whatever your faith or background, you share the same history and the same future.
"I call on religious and community leaders, Muslim and Christian, to act as messengers for peace," he said.
CAR, a landlocked country, descended into anarchy in March, when Seleka rebels from the mostly-Muslim north ousted president François Bozize.
A Christian who had held the office for ten years, Bozize enjoys the support of the country's Christian majority.
The months since have seen the emergence of Christian "anti-balaka" militias, which have engaged in frequent clashes with Seleka fighters.
The groups are accused of killing civilians based on their religious affiliations.
“I have a clear message to all who would commit atrocities and crimes against humanity,” Ban said. “The world is watching. You will be held to account. The United Nations is committed to helping your country recover from this crisis. You are not alone and we will not abandon you.”
According to UN estimates, more than 400,000 people – nearly ten percent of the country's 4.6 million-strong population – have abandoned their homes as a result of the violence.
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