Former President Of Central African Republic Sentenced To Life Imprisonment

 

(Francois Bozizé, Former President of the Central African Republic (CAR) )

A court in the nation's capital, Bangui, has given the exiled former president of the Central African Republic (CAR), Francois Bozizé, a life sentence. The 76-year-old who is living in Guinea-Bissau is currently under the leadership of a rebel coalition and was adjudicated guilty in absentia of a few offenses. He was accused of insurrection and weakening security, among other things. The verdict, which was made public on Thursday, lacked detailed information about the time frame or offenses that were committed.

Twenty other people, including two of Mr. Bozizé's sons, were also found guilty in their absence in addition to him. Bozizé first took office in the CAR in 2003, but he was overthrown ten years later, beginning a bloody civil conflict that has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people.

In addition to Mr. Bozizé, 20 others, including two of his sons, were also convicted in their absence. Bozizé originally came to power in the CAR in 2003 but was ousted a decade later, sparking a violent civil war that has resulted in the deaths of thousands of people. 

It's important to note that trials held in absentia raise questions about the defendant's right to a fair trial and the opportunity to mount a defense. Additionally, specific details regarding the charges and evidence presented in court are not provided in this report.