Michel Djotodia

Michel Djotodia was a rebel leader in the Central African Republic who rose to prominence as part of the Seleka coalition. In late 2012, Seleka launched an offensive, accusing President François Bozizé of failing to uphold a peace agreement. After negotiations and renewed hostilities, Seleka seized the capital, Bangui, in March 2013, and Bozizé fled the country. Djotodia then claimed to be the de facto head of state, suspending the constitution and dissolving the government. Despite international condemnation and the formation of a transitional council, Djotodia was elected president of this interim body in August 2013. His government struggled to restore order, and widespread violence, including atrocities by Seleka rebels, led to the formation of self-defense militias. Djotodia and his prime minister resigned in January 2014 under pressure from regional leaders due to the escalating crisis.12