Erenon, who heads the March for Democracy and the People’s Salvation (MDSP) party, had been living abroad after fleeing in 2022, citing an attempted abduction.
Dominique Désiré Erenon, a leading critic of the Central African Republic government, was arrested at Bangui’s main airport on Friday shortly after returning from three years in exile in France.
Erenon, who heads the March for Democracy and the People’s Salvation (MDSP) party, had been living abroad after fleeing in 2022, citing an attempted abduction.
According to the BBC, he had strongly opposed 2016 constitutional reforms that extended presidential powers, a move many observers described as a step backward for democracy in the conflict-torn nation.
His arrest followed President Faustin-Archange Touadéra’s call for all Central Africans in the diaspora to return home.
Erenon responded to the appeal and was detained immediately upon arrival.
Central African authorities have not disclosed the reasons for his arrest or any formal charges. The silence has fuelled speculation and criticism among civil society groups.
Opposition supporters say his detention is part of a growing pattern of political intimidation ahead of the December elections.
After interrogation by the Research and Investigation Section (SRI), reports indicate Erenon is expected to be referred to the public prosecutor for a hearing.
His family said they are monitoring the situation closely and will decide on whether to hire legal representation, reports RFI.
Formerly a constitutional expert with the African Union and a lecturer in public law at the University of Bangui, Erenon returned last week to resume his teaching duties and “participate freely in national political dialogue”, according to his party.
His return comes amid tighter state control and the ongoing presence of Russian-linked mercenaries supporting the government.