Central African Republic: RFI Correspondent and URCA Spokesperson Summoned Following Report on Opposition Leader

Bangui, May 7, 2026 (RJDH) — The correspondent of Radio France Internationale (RFI) in the Central African Republic, Rolf Domia Leu, along with the spokesperson of the Union for Central African Renewal (URCA), the country’s main opposition party, were summoned by the authorities on Thursday. The two individuals, separately concerned, are being questioned following the broadcast of a report focusing on opposition figure Anicet Georges Dologuélé, in which the party spokesperson had been interviewed.

During a press conference held on May 6, 2026, Anicet Georges Dologuélé denounced what he described as restrictions imposed on him, including a ban on leaving the country and the confiscation of his diplomatic passport.

The report aired by RFI reportedly angered the authorities. In response, the Ministry of Public Security decided to summon separately the journalist who produced the report and the URCA spokesperson who appeared in the interview.

Reached by phone, Mr. Dologuélé’s lawyer described the summons as baseless. According to him, the authorities are alleging insults against state officials without being able to provide evidence. “We are currently at the Central Office for the Repression of Banditry (OCRB) to attend their hearing,” he stated.

For his part, Anicet Georges Dologuélé said he is closely monitoring developments, which he views as a sign of increasing political pressure and shrinking freedoms in the Central African Republic.

The summons comes just one day after World Press Freedom Day, amid growing concerns expressed by media professionals over mounting pressure faced in the exercise of their work.