Catherine Samba-Panza, born on June 26, 1954, is a Central African politician and lawyer who served as the Transitional President of the Central African Republic from January 23, 2014, to March 30, 2016. She made history as the first female head of state in the Central African Republic and the third female president in Africa at the time.
Catherine Samba-Panza’s presidency came during a period of political and humanitarian crisis in the Central African Republic. In March 2013, a coalition of rebel groups known as Seleka seized power, leading to widespread violence, displacement, and human rights abuses. Samba-Panza was appointed as interim president during a transitional period aimed at restoring stability and facilitating democratic elections.
Before her presidency, Catherine Samba-Panza had a successful career as a lawyer and businesswoman. She served as the Mayor of Bangui, the capital city of the Central African Republic, from 2013 to 2014, prior to her appointment as interim president.
As Transitional President, Catherine Samba-Panza faced immense challenges, including the task of overseeing the country’s transition to democratic governance amidst ongoing violence and conflict. She worked to promote national reconciliation, facilitate dialogue between rival factions, and restore law and order in the Central African Republic.
During her tenure, Samba-Panza prioritized efforts to rebuild state institutions, strengthen the rule of law, and promote respect for human rights. She advocated for the disarmament and demobilization of armed groups, as well as the reintegration of former combatants into society.
Samba-Panza also focused on addressing the humanitarian crisis in the Central African Republic, including providing assistance to internally displaced persons and refugees affected by the conflict. She called for international support and assistance to help alleviate the suffering of civilians and restore stability in the country.
Despite facing numerous challenges during her presidency, including criticism over the slow progress of the transitional process, Catherine Samba-Panza remained committed to her role as a unifying figure and mediator in the Central African Republic’s path towards peace and reconciliation.
After leaving office in 2016 following the election of Faustin-Archange Touadéra as president, Catherine Samba-Panza continued to be involved in peacebuilding and humanitarian efforts in the Central African Republic. Her tenure as Transitional President marked a significant period in the country’s history, characterized by efforts to overcome divisions and restore stability in the aftermath of conflict.
