Russian Paramilitaries in Central African Republic: Fear and Ambivalence Among Locals

In the Central African Republic (CAR), the presence of Russian paramilitary forces, particularly the Wagner Group, has created a complex dynamic of both fear and reliance among the local population. While some residents in Bangui express gratitude for the security these fighters provide, many others remain silent about the allegations of human rights abuses against them.

Imam Abdoulaye Ouasselegué, a prominent figure in Bangui, acknowledges the peace brought to his community by the Russian fighters. "They have brought peace," he stated, despite the ongoing conflict in other parts of the nation. A decade ago, his neighborhood was marked by violence and destruction, as armed groups clashed, leaving communities divided along religious lines.

Following a UN Security Council recommendation, Russia sent military trainers to CAR in conjunction with the UN peacekeeping mission, leading to the rise of the Wagner Group's influence. As of December 2020, these forces played a critical role in defending Bangui from rebel groups, effectively weakening such factions throughout the country.

This situation has resulted in a controversial reputation for the Wagner Group. While many in Bangui praise their contributions to security, documented instances of murder and torture have raised serious concerns among human rights advocates. Local lawyer Bruno Gbiegba mentions that survivors of atrocities are often too afraid to speak out due to the omnipresent threat of violence.

The Wagner Group has now transitioned into a new entity under the Russian Ministry of Defense but continues to operate extensively in CAR, overseeing both police and military forces. Allegations of terror tactics against the population have emerged, with reports indicating that these forces aim to suppress dissent under the guise of fighting rebellion.

Despite the gravity of human rights violations, many locals choose to downplay these accusations, often labeling them as Western propaganda. As the Russian military presence solidifies, marked by the construction of a permanent base capable of housing thousands of soldiers, critics worry that dissenting voices will be increasingly silenced.

The CAR government dismisses allegations against the Russian forces, framing any collateral damage as inevitable in asymmetric warfare. However, the fear among civilians remains palpable, leading to a climate where discussing Russian influence is fraught with tension.

Given the Wagner Group's established foothold in CAR, the extent of its influence is unlikely to wane soon, raising significant concerns regarding the future of human rights in the region.