A former rebel leader in the Central African Republic has been charged with crimes against humanity and war crimes by a United Nations-backed court. Abdoulaye Hissene, the ex-military chief of the FPRC faction of the former Seleka rebellion, was arrested on Monday and has been held in detention since then.

The Special Criminal Court (SCC) announced on Thursday that Hissene is facing charges for crimes committed in 2017 while he was the leader of the FRPC. The SCC handles cases relating to war crimes and crimes against humanity dating back to 2003.

The CAR, one of the poorest countries in the world, descended into a sectarian conflict after Seleka rebels, a coalition of armed groups primarily composed of Muslims, removed President Francois Bozize in 2013. Hissene's arrest marks a significant step towards justice for the atrocities committed during this time.

Hissene has been subject to United Nations sanctions since 2017 for his involvement in acts that undermine the peace, stability, or security of the CAR. The UN has also highlighted his links with ex-militia leader Maxime Mokom, whose anti-Balaka militias were formed in response to the Seleka's takeover of the capital, Bangui, and have been implicated in numerous atrocities against Muslim civilians.

Mokom himself has faced charges brought before the International Criminal Court. He is accused of directing attacks against civilians, as well as murder, rape, pillaging, and destruction of property. Attacks against religious buildings, including mosques, are also among the charges against him.

These indictments and legal actions demonstrate a significant push towards accountability for the crimes committed during the Central African Republic's period of unrest. The Special Criminal Court's work in investigating and charging individuals responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity is a crucial step in the pursuit of justice and the prevention of future atrocities.