French troops continue struggle for control of Bangui

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French soldiers are continuing their mission on the front line in Bangui, the capital of Central African Republic.

Troops are patrolling neighbourhoods and trying to disarm Seleka militants.

The rebel movement forced the president Francois Bozize into exile in March and installed Michel Djotodia as head of state.

French President Francois Hollande arrived on Tuesday evening, after a visit to South Africa, just hours after two French soldiers were killed:

“By coming to the Central African Republic, France is not looking for personal interest, it has nothing to gain from its presence here, and doesn’t claim for any unjustified influence. France only intends to bring relief to a population that is threatened by lawless factions.”

France has around 1,600 troops on the ground now. With the country in chaos, reestablishing law and order is top priority.

One Seleka fighter told euronews: “I’m angry about the French soldiers, there’s an inequality here. Because they protect some and abandon others. That’s unfair. They should be there for all Central Africans. But they protect only christians, not muslims.”

On top of the two French soldiers, close to 400 people died last week. Over 100,000 people have been forced from their homes, according to aid agencies.

Mob rule has reportedly taken over in some areas and armed fighters have killed hospital patients.

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