Former Central African Republic President Seeks Asylum in Uganda

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Thursday, August 29, 2002

Former Central African Republic President Seeks Asylum in Uganda

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

Former Central African Republic president Andre Kolingba, who was convicted in absentia of taking part in a failed 2001 coup and sentenced to death Monday, is in Uganda on temporary asylum, the New Vision newspaper reported Thursday.

A senior government official was quoted as saying on Wednesday that Kolingba, who allegedly tried to overthrow President Ange Felix Patasse in a bloody clash in May 2001, has been allowed intoUganda as he seeks asylum in another country.

"He may be trying to take a temporary refuge here so as to lookfor a secure third country where he can stay," said the official who preferred anonymity.

He said, "the case against Kolingba is not an international one.Ugandan can give him a temporary shelter."

The former military ruler's presence in Kampala would not create a diplomatic row between Uganda and the Central African Republic, he added.

Kolingba ruled the tiny African country for 12 years before losing elections to current President Ange-Felix Patasse in 1993. He was also convicted of assassination and destruction of propertyby a criminal court in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic.

Kolingba and three of his children were among the 21 people sentenced to death in absentia in Bangui Monday.

Questions?Comments? Click here

Central Africa Puts Down Coup Attempt

20 Killed in Central African Republic Plane Crash

Highly Concerning China, US Plans to Deploy New Fighters in Guam ( 5 Messages)

Japanese Court Dismisses Germ Warfare Victims' Damages Claim ( 3 Messages)

China Plans to Stop the Overeas Flight of Corrupt Officials ( 14 Messages)

China's Exports Hit Record of US$56.2 Billion in July ( 96 Messages)

Old Chinese Beaten by NY Police, Triggers off Big Clash ( 47 Messages)