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Andre KolingbaPresident of the Central African Republic from 20 September 1981 to 22 October 1993
Date of Birth: 12.08.1935
Country:  France |
Content:
André-Dieudonné Kolingba
Early Life and Military CareerAndré-Dieudonné Kolingba, a member of the Yakoma ethnic group, served in the French military before the Central African Republic (CAR) gained independence in 1960. He later joined the CAR Armed Forces, becoming a Brigadier General in April 1973.
Rise to Power
After serving as technical advisor to the Minister of Defense, Kolingba became an aide to Emperor Jean-Bédel Bokassa in March 1977. He briefly served as CAR's ambassador to Canada and then West Germany before being appointed Minister of Defense in March 1979.
Bokassa was overthrown in September 1979, and in July 1981, President David Dacko appointed Kolingba as Chief of the General Staff. In a military coup on September 20, 1981, Kolingba ousted Dacko, becoming President of the CAR and Chairman of the Military Committee for National Recovery.
Presidency
During Kolingba's presidency, former dictator Bokassa attempted to return to the country in 1986. However, he was arrested upon arrival and later sentenced to life imprisonment.
In 1992, Kolingba allowed multi-party elections but lost and ignored the results. The elections were repeated in 1993, and this time Kolingba accepted the outcome. Before handing over power to newly elected President Ange-Félix Patassé, Kolingba granted a sweeping amnesty, releasing thousands of prisoners, including Bokassa.
Post-Presidency
Kolingba remained active in CAR politics after stepping down as president, leading his own party, the Central African Democratic Rally. He unsuccessfully ran for president in the 1999 elections and again in 2005, where he placed third.
In 2001, Kolingba led an unsuccessful coup attempt that was crushed by forces loyal to Patassé. In 2003, he apologized for mistakes made during his presidency.
Death
André-Dieudonné Kolingba passed away on July 7, 2010, at the age of 73. He is remembered as a controversial figure who played a significant role in the history of the Central African Republic.
