Former rebels in Central African Republic disarm but face few options. Wagner is one of them
Nearly 5,000 fighters have put down their arms in Central African Republic since a disarmament program launched nearly a decade ago
BOUAR, Central African Republic (AP) — The bodies of children killed in the crossfire lay on the ground. It was too much for the rebel. After a year of fighting rivals across Central African Republic, the abuses were mounting and he wanted out.
The 42-year-old took advantage of a nationwide program meant to help people like him lay down their guns. He trained in entrepreneurship, received a bi-weekly stipend of about $35 and was told to return to civilian life.
But there's little normal life for veteran fighters in one of the world's most volatile countries. He couldn't find work, was shunned by his family for his violent past and was threatened by enemies. Two years later he became a fighter again, this time helping Russian mercenaries combat the armed groups he had left.
Nearly 5,000 fighters have put down their arms in Central African Republic since the program launched nearly a decade ago. Yet former rebels, communities and conflict experts say it's hard to stop fighting in a country where little other paid work exists.
