Prominent Muslim ex-leader slain in CAR capital

Officials in Central African Republic say a Christian militia has killed a former government health minister who had supported last year's rebellion by Muslim fighters.

Dr Joseph Kalite was assassinated today at the Central Mosque in the capital, Bangui, according to El-Hadj Wananga Kabara.

News of Kalite's death sent waves of fresh fear through Bangui's Muslim community, which has come under growing attack from Christian fighters in recent weeks.

The mostly Muslim rebels who overthrew the government last year became deeply despised by the Christian majority because of killings and other atrocities they committed.

Muslim civilians, though, say they are not to blame for the rebellion and have fled by the tens of thousands to neighbouring countries.