The new strongman retains the Defence Ministry in the 34-member government.

Central African Republic, CAR’s new leader, Michel Djotodia on Sunday, March 31, 2013 announced his first government in which he remains Defence Minister, Reuters news agency reported, citing a statement issued by his spokesman. The new government that is due to hold elections in the mineral-rich former French colony within three years, retains civilian opposition leader, Nicolas Tiangaye, as Prime Minister.

According to Radio France Internationale, RFI, of the 34-member cabinet, Séléka, the former rebel coalition that brought Michel Djotodia to power a week ago, has nine positions, including five senior ministries like those in charge of mines, the economy and security. The five Séléka ministers from the deposed government of François Bozizé retained their portfolios.

Opposition parties have eight positions and the hitherto largely underrepresented civil society got 16 ministries. Deposed President François Bozizé’s Kwa Na Kwa, KNK party got a single position. Under the new arrangement, the spirit of the January 2013 Libreville, Gabon Peace Agreement that temporarily ended fighting between government troops and Séléka, has been respected. The new transitional government of national unity will last until elections expected in 2016. 

At a rally on Saturday March 30, 2013, CAR's new leader addressed supporters in the capital, Bangui, expressing hope to be the last rebel to become President by force of arms, BBC said. While appealing to those who had fled abroad to return, he promised not to launch any witch hunt. The new President promised to promote tolerance, dialogue and forgiveness, pledging not to stand for presidential elections in 2016.

Meanwhile, Chadian President, Idriss Deby who is chair of the 10-member Economic Community of Central African States, ECCAS, will tomorrow April 3, 2013 host a summit in N'Djamena to discuss the situation in the Central African Republic. South African President, Jacob Zuma is also due to attend the meeting. Michel Djotodia toppled President Francois Bozizé on March 24, 2013 after leading thousands of his Séléka rebel fighters into the riverside capital, Bangui, triggering days of looting and drawing international condemnation. Séléka joined a power-sharing government last January after talks brokered by regional leaders to end a rebellion they launched last year.