A T Benguewe Damaras publicly called for the resignation of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra on August 13, 2026. The demand was made during the Central African Republic's 66th anniversary of independence, an occasion typically marked by national celebration and reflection. Damaras directly addressed the president, stating, "DÉMISSIONNEZ," which translates to "RESIGN." This stark and public call for Touadéra's departure reflects growing political pressure and discontent after a decade in office, a period that Damaras described as "catastrophic." The timing of the statement, coinciding with a significant national day, showed the gravity of the appeal and its implications for the country's political landscape.
Critique of Governance
A T Benguewe Damaras asserted that the national motto, 'Unité, Dignité, Travail' (Unity, Dignity, Work), which embodies the aspirations of the Central African Republic, has been "completely trampled" under the current administration. This claim suggests a profound departure from the nation's foundational principles. Damaras further claimed that the voice of the Central African people is stifled, indicating a suppression of democratic expression and public discourse. He also alleged that the press is muzzled, pointing to restrictions on media freedom and the dissemination of information. According to Damaras, constitutional maneuvers are frequently employed to maintain President Touadéra in power, raising concerns about the integrity of the country's legal and political frameworks. Additionally, Damaras stated that national sovereignty has become an illusion, alleging that the country's security is outsourced to foreign mercenaries, thereby compromising the nation's independence and control over its own defense.
Personal History and Warning
A T Benguewe Damaras revealed a personal connection to President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, stating that Touadéra was formerly Damaras's professor at the University of Bangui. This history underpinned Damaras's direct appeal for the president to resign, a call encapsulated in the stark demand, "DÉMISSIONNEZ." The former student's public challenge to his erstwhile professor notes the deepening political divisions and growing calls for change within the country. Damaras further warned that popular discontent within the Central African Republic has reached a critical threshold, suggesting a heightened risk of instability if the current political situation persists. This warning shows the urgency of the political climate and the potential for widespread unrest if the grievances of the populace are not addressed.
Urgency for Change
A T Benguewe Damaras described the decade of President Touadéra's leadership as "catastrophic," emphasizing the severe challenges faced by the nation during this period. Damaras suggested that President Touadéra should resign voluntarily to prevent collective frustration from pushing the Central African Republic into an "irreparable" situation. He noted the country's immense natural wealth, contrasting it sharply with its 191st ranking in the human development index. This stark disparity, according to Damaras, condemns "seven out of ten Centrafricans to poverty," despite the nation's abundant resources. Damaras reiterated his demand for the president's departure, stating, "DÉMISSIONNEZ," stressing that a voluntary resignation could avert further deterioration of the country's social and political fabric. The call for immediate action reflects a deep concern for the future stability and prosperity of the Central African Republic.
