ABSTRACT
Ange-Flix Patass is a former agronomist and one-time communist militant, whose turbulent political career includes a spell as prime minister under the notorious regime of self-styled Emperor Bokassa. Patass remained in exile for ten years before returning to the CAR, when as the MLPC candidate he successfully contested the presidential elections held in two rounds. Discontent turned into open insurrection when soldiers loyal to Kolingba were defeated in pitched battles in Bangui by loyalist troops and Chadian, Congolese and Libyan allies. Bozize was eventually exiled to France, via Chad, while Kolingba remains a wanted man. Martin Zigul had no government experience or political profile when he was appointed as prime minister. When he was appointed to the Cameroon-based Bank of Central African States (BEAC) post as national director for the Central African Republic (CAR) had been back in Bangui in his new role for less than two months when the unexpected call came for him to become prime minister.
