André-Dieudonné Kolingba

André-Dieudonné Kolingba was a Central African politician who served as the fourth President of the Central African Republic. He came to power in 1981 through a bloodless coup, ousting President David Dacko, and held office until 1993, when he lost to Ange-Félix Patassé in a democratic election. During his twelve years in power, Kolingba benefited from strong support from France until the end of the Cold War in 1992, which eventually led to increased pressure for democratic reforms.

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ANDRE KOLINGBA

André-Dieudonné Kolingba was born on August 12, 1936, in Bangui, the capital of the French colony of Oubangui-Chari in French Equatorial Africa. He was a significant figure in the history of the Central African Republic, known for his military background and his time as the country's leader. Born into the Yakoma ethnic group, Kolingba embarked on a military career in 1954, initially serving in the French military before transitioning to the Central African army following the country's independence in 1960. His ascent through the ranks was marked by his appointment as a general and his roles as a diplomat and adviser in various governmental positions.

Kolingba’s most notable political achievement came in September 1981, when he led a coup that overthrew President David Dacko. Establishing a military committee for national reconstruction, Kolingba ruled the country as a military dictator, consolidating power through a new constitution that effectively made him president for six years. During his rule, Kolingba maintained strict control over the political landscape, with his party being the only legal political entity in the country.

However, the end of the Cold War and increasing pressures for democratization forced Kolingba to gradually open up the political system. Despite these changes, he was unsuccessful in retaining power during the 1992 elections, where he finished last. After a brief attempt to extend his presidency, Kolingba eventually relinquished power to Ange-Félix Patassé in 1993, marking the first peaceful transfer of power in the nation's history.

Kolingba’s later years were marked by controversy, including an attempted coup in 2001 against Patassé. Fleeing the country to avoid trial, he returned in 2003 following an amnesty declared by François Bozizé. Kolingba spent his final years in reconciliation efforts and sought forgiveness for his actions during his time in power. He passed away in Paris in 2010, leaving behind a complex legacy in Central African history. Kolingba was also a decorated individual, receiving several national honors, and was survived by his wife, Mireille Kotalimbora, and their twelve children.

Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andr%C3%A9_Kolingba

GOVERNING TIME LINE

André Kolingba came to power in September 1981 after overthrowing President David Dacko in a coup d'état. He ruled as a military dictator until 1986, establishing a constitution that allowed him to be automatically elected president for a six-year term. Facing increasing pressure for democratization, Kolingba held elections in 1992 but finished last with only 10 percent of the vote. He attempted to extend his presidency through a "constitutional coup" but ultimately left office on September 19, 1993, peacefully transferring power to Ange-Félix Patassé after losing the presidential election.