Rebel forces in CAR dissolves parliament and suspends constitution

The rebel leader of Central African Republic CAR says he is suspending the constitution and dissolving parliament.

Michel Djotodia said there would be a transition period until "credible and transparent" elections, during which he will "legislate by decree".

He added he will uphold a peace deal that promises elections in three years.

Meanwhile, the ousted CAR leader Francois Bozize has fled to neighbouring Cameroon.

Following the takeover, the African Union has suspended CAR and imposed sanctions on rebel leaders.
About 5,000 Seleka fighters swept into the capital Bangui on Sunday after the collapse of a power-sharing deal - the Libreville Accord.

The deal collapsed when Seleka withdrew its members from the government.
Earlier, South African President Jacob Zuma said at least 13 South African soldiers were killed in the battle against the rebels on Sunday.

The troops had been stationed in Bangui to support government forces.
Reports say it is the heaviest loss of life for South Africa in a single battle since it became a democracy in 1994.

Looters and armed gangs are reported to be still roaming the streets of Bangui.
The UN says tens of thousands of people have fled CAR into neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroon.

CAR has been unstable since its independence from France in 1960 and is one of the least-developed countries in the world.

BBC NEWS