In February 2019 the government of CAR signed a peace agreement with the 14 main armed groups operating in the country. The agreement was the sixth signed between the government and armed groups since the Seleka rebel alliance overran the capital in a coup in March 2013. The last six years have been marked by recurrent fighting between fragmented armed groups, with civilians paying the highest price. Prior to the outbreak of this violence, conflict in the country rarely occurred along religious lines. However, since 2013 armed groups have largely manipulated ethnic and religious divisions to realise their aims. The latest peace agreement is supported by the African Union and the United Nations as the best means of bringing peace in the country; however incidents of violence against civilians and UN peacekeepers continue to be reported. Find out more about CAR at csw.org.uk/car

Sunday 28 June

Presidential elections are set for the end of this year. Pray that security and state authority would be restored throughout the country to ensure a peaceful democratic voting process.

Monday 29 June

In February 2019 a peace agreement was signed, which has held for longer than previous arrangements. Pray that all armed groups will uphold it in its entirety.

Tuesday 30 June

The peace agreement is not without its faults. It provides little clarity on what justice mechanisms should be used to hold members of armed groups who stand accused of rights abuses to account. To complicate matters further, many of these groups are now part of the government. Pray that all those responsible for atrocity crimes and other human rights violations would be held to account.

Wednesday 1 July

Pray for a definitive end to violence, and that the international community would continue to raise concerns about ongoing attacks and support the government to hold perpetrators to account.

Thursday 2 July

Last December at least 30 people were killed as a result of fighting in Bangui, and shops and houses were burned down. Pray for comfort and peace for the victims’ families, and for the communities as they rebuild their businesses and homes.

Friday 3 July

Pray the following verse over the CAR today: ‘But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never failing stream!’ (Amos 5:24)

Saturday 4 July

Holy Spirit, pour your peace and justice on the CAR today. May any remaining warring factions relent and allow for the establishment of true peace and freedom for every citizen. Amen.

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