Russian commemorations in Bangui – what on earth!
On Saturday 9 May, Bangui celebrated something rather incongruous: the 81st anniversary of Russia’s victory over Nazi Germany in the Second World War. What does the country have to do with this? All this at the behest of a single man, Faustin Touadéra, who imposed them – and not the best sort either; they are mercenaries, ‘ugly ones’ as they say. Is this a democratic act? Who was consulted? At last! For this occasion, the Russian diplomatic mission in the Central African Republic organised a series of events intended to be memorable, blending military, cultural and fraternal symbols, in the presence of the Central African Armed Forces (FACA), Russian instructors, diplomats and representatives of the Russian House. Just like in Moscow, it all began with the raising of the Russian national flag and the playing of the national anthem (we really are in Bangui), followed by a speech from Ambassador Alexander Bikantov. Wreaths were then laid at the Monument to the Defenders of the CAR, before a car race in the colours of the Great Victory brought the festivities to a close. The Minister-Counsellor and Presidential Spokesperson, Albert Yaloké Mokpeme, made a speech on the matter. “9 May is a very important date for the Russian Federation. It marks Germany’s surrender in 1945, which is celebrated every year with great patriotism. The Central African Republic should take inspiration from this. When the CAR was attacked by the rebels, Russia was among the allies who helped us repel the enemy. This remains a memorable victory for the Central Africans”, what does this have to do with the Central African Republic? For Dimitri Sity, director of the Russian House in Bangui, he highlighted the universal dimension of the values embodied by this commemoration. “The values of this celebration are very important to us. They are part of our genetic code: peace, cohesion, fraternity and unity. It is these values that enabled us to defeat our enemy. Every year, we see that the situation is improving. We are moving forward together, but there are still many challenges ahead. I hope that Russia and the CAR will continue to work together for development.” Yeah, right!
Analysis by Sophie HERVOUET l LNC
For: FatimaLamineHebdo
Date: 13 May 2026
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