Central African Republic ceasefire signed

BBC News, 11 January 2013

Under the plan, a prime minister will be appointed from the opposition bloc

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Rebels fighting the government in the Central African Republic have signed a formal ceasefire following talks in Gabon.

The rebels and president agreed to the formation of a unity government from Saturday, Reuters news agency reports.

The Seleka rebel alliance took control of northern and eastern CAR in a four-week offensive starting on 10 December.

It has accused President Francois Bozize of breaking previous peace deals.

Friday's ceasefire agreement was signed in Gabon's capital Libreville after three days of talks mediated by neighbouring central African nations.

The deal envisages the dissolution of the country's National Assembly, Reuters reports.

Under the plan, a prime minister will be appointed from the opposition bloc, and legislative elections will be held in 12 months.

The rebels had previously called for the president's resignation, the departure of South African troops and the release of political prisoners in return for a truce.

South Africa this week began sending about 400 troops to help stabilise CAR, while forces from neighbouring countries were also sent.

Both the US and France, the former colonial power, turned down government pleas for help against the rebels.

The rebels only halted their advance 100km (60 miles) from Bangui after the regional peacekeeping force was deployed.

It is the biggest threat Mr Bozize has faced since he took power in a coup in 2003.

CAR is one of the poorest countries in Africa, despite its considerable mineral resources.