It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Jean-Bedel Bokassa, who passed away on November 3, 1996, at the age of 75. Bokassa was a historical figure and the former leader of the Central African Republic, serving from 1965 to 1979. Bokassa was born on February 22, 1921, in Bobangui, Central African Republic. He began his career in the French army, eventually becoming a general in the Central African Republic's armed forces. He became the nation's leader in 1965 and ruled for almost 15 years, during which he transformed the nation from a republic to an empire. Bokassa was remembered by those who knew him as a kind and compassionate leader. During his time in power, he focused on national development and international relations. He is credited with constructing roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals. He was a leader of distinction and will be remembered for his accomplishments as a ruler of the Central African Republic. Bokassa will be greatly missed by all those who knew, and loved him.