Hopes for reconciliation in chaos of Central African Republic
Tens of thousands have lost their homes in Central African Republic. They are the lucky ones. More than 450 have been killed since last Thursday, amid fierce fighting between Muslims and Christians.
The country has been gripped by chaos since March, when mainly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power.
French President Francois Hollande on the ground in Central African Republic Wednesday says the biggest challenge will come after the fighting.
(SOUNDBITE) (French) FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE SAYING:
"What is most difficult to achieve is not to put an end to a conflict or even topple a dictatorship, no. What is most difficult to do is to reconciliate a people which has been torn apart. That is your mission and we need to succeed in this mission. Succeed for the future of Central African Republic, succeed for France."
Reconciliation efforts are underway. Christian and Muslim leaders met Wednesday to try to find a way to heal.
(SOUNDBITE) (French) IMAM
The country has been gripped by chaos since March, when mainly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power.
French President Francois Hollande on the ground in Central African Republic Wednesday says the biggest challenge will come after the fighting.
(SOUNDBITE) (French) FRENCH PRESIDENT FRANCOIS HOLLANDE SAYING:
"What is most difficult to achieve is not to put an end to a conflict or even topple a dictatorship, no. What is most difficult to do is to reconciliate a people which has been torn apart. That is your mission and we need to succeed in this mission. Succeed for the future of Central African Republic, succeed for France."
Reconciliation efforts are underway. Christian and Muslim leaders met Wednesday to try to find a way to heal.
(SOUNDBITE) (French) IMAM