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Anti-balaka
Christian militias formed in the Central African Republic / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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The Anti-balaka (anti-machete) is an alliance[citation needed] of militia groups based in the Central African Republic in the early 21st century said by the Guardian to be composed primarily of Christians, but to include some Muslims.[3] However, some church leaders have contested the claimed exclusively Christian character of such groups.[4] The Tony Blair Faith Foundation and journalist Andrew Katz have noted that animists also participate in Anti-balaka groups.[5][6]
Anti-balaka | |
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![]() Anti-Balaka militia in Gbaguili, a village located 340 km from Bangui | |
Leaders | ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() See full list |
Dates of operation | 2013–present |
Headquarters | Bossangoa[1] (until 2021) N'Djamena, Chad (since 2021)[2] |
Active regions | Central African Republic |
Part of | Coalition of Patriots for Change (since 2020) |
Opponents | Séléka and splinter groups (until 2020) |
Battles and wars | Central African Republic Civil War (2012–present) |
This militia[clarification needed] formed in the Central African Republic after the rise to power of Michel Djotodia in 2013.[7] Amnesty International reported in 2015 that some members of anti-balaka groups have forcibly converted Muslims to Christianity.[8] Anti-balaka leaders have also been present at torture session of people accused of being witches in public ceremonies, and Anti-balaka have been accused of extorting money with witchcraft accusation, according to an internal UN report.[9]