LOUIS OKAMBA
Associated Press

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of Congo (AP) — Observers say Central African Republic’s peace talks are on hold after a rebel delegation failed to show up for the second day of meetings.

The development Tuesday marks a setback for regional mediators trying to negotiate a cease-fire in the country where thousands have died since sectarian violence exploded last December.

One participant who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the press said there are internal divisions in Seleka over the document that calls for a cessation of hostilities.

The Seleka rebels seized power in March 2013, overthrowing the president of a decade. Their leader stepped down in January.

A civilian transitional government is now tasked with organizing national elections by February although violence is still raging in the country’s provinces.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.