Firmin Ngrebada, former Prime Minister of the Central African Republic (CAR), announced on April 20, 2026, that he is embarking on a significant literary project: writing his memoirs. This decision follows a notable electoral defeat he experienced on December 25, 2025. Ngrebada shared the news personally on his Facebook page, indicating a period of profound reflection on his extensive political career and public service. His tenure as the country's Prime Minister spanned from 2019 until 2021, a period marked by significant national developments. The memoirs are expected to offer an in-depth account of his time in government, providing insights into the challenges and triumphs he encountered, alongside other personal and professional experiences that have shaped his journey.
Details of the Memoir Project
Firmin Ngrebada's ambitious memoir project is planned as an extensive three-volume series, a format that suggests a full exploration of his life and political trajectory. The former Prime Minister has confirmed that he is currently deeply engaged in writing the first installment of this multi-part work. A distinctive detail Ngrebada chose to share publicly is his method of composition: he is producing the memoirs entirely by hand. This traditional approach shows a deliberate and personal commitment to the project, perhaps reflecting a desire for a more intimate connection with his narrative.
In outlining his approach to the content, Ngrebada has explicitly stated that his intention is not to name living individuals directly within the text. This commitment points to a careful consideration of the sensitivities involved in documenting contemporary political events and relationships. Ngrebada has pledged to uphold his obligations of reserve throughout the entire writing process, a standard often expected of former high-ranking public officials. He has also indicated that he will take all necessary precautions before the publication of any of the volumes. These assurances collectively suggest a cautious and measured approach to documenting his political experiences and reflections, aiming to balance transparency with discretion. The decision to write by hand and omit direct naming of living persons could also be interpreted as an effort to focus on experiences and policies rather than personal anecdotes or potentially controversial individual interactions.
Political Journey and Defeat
Firmin Ngrebada's political career in the Central African Republic has been multifaceted and prominent. Prior to his elevation to the premiership, he held the key position of Director of Cabinet at the presidency, a role that placed him at the heart of governmental operations. During this period, he was widely described as a close collaborator of President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, indicating a significant level of trust and influence within the executive branch. This close association with the head of state was a defining characteristic of his early political ascendancy.
Following his impactful time in government, Ngrebada transitioned to a legislative role, successfully becoming a deputy representing the constituency of Boali. His commitment to public service continued in this capacity, allowing him to contribute to national policy-making from a different vantage point. However, his political ambitions did not stop there. Ngrebada also made a notable bid for the influential position of President of the National Assembly. This endeavor, while significant, ultimately resulted in what was officially termed an "échec," or failure, marking a setback in his parliamentary career aspirations.
His political journey continued until the key elections held on December 25, 2025. These elections proved to be a critical juncture for Ngrebada. In a significant turn of events, Firmin Ngrebada lost his mandate as the deputy for Boali, marking a profound and undeniable defeat in his political career. This loss not only ended his direct representation in the legislature but also served as a catalyst for his current period of reflection and the decision to chronicle his experiences through memoirs. The electoral defeat on December 25, 2025, thus represents a watershed moment, prompting a shift from active political office to the contemplative act of historical documentation.
Reflections and Future Outlook
Firmin Ngrebada's decision to pen his memoirs, an announcement made on April 20, 2026, undeniably marks a significant period of reflection for the former Central African Republic Prime Minister. This introspective undertaking comes directly on the heels of his electoral defeat on December 25, 2025, an event that saw him lose his mandate as the deputy for Boali. Through this three-volume series, Ngrebada is meticulously documenting his extensive political journey, offering a unique perspective on the inner workings of CAR governance.
The memoirs are set to cover his substantial time in government, including his impactful tenure as Prime Minister from 2019 to 2021, a period during which he navigated complex national and international challenges. His close collaboration with President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a key aspect of his career, is also expected to be a central theme, providing insights into the dynamics of presidential leadership and executive decision-making. Ngrebada has explicitly indicated a cautious and responsible approach to publication, pledging to uphold obligations of reserve and promising not to name living individuals directly within the text. This commitment shows a desire to present a historical account that is both informative and respectful of personal privacy and ongoing political sensitivities, ensuring that his reflections contribute to the national discourse without inadvertently causing undue controversy.
