Updated

A demonstration in support of Central African Republic's new leader Michel Djotodia was held in the capital, Bangui.

Several hundred residents marched through the city of 700,000 Saturday, carrying banners endorsing Djotodia, who came to power last week when the Seleka rebel coalition advanced from the north to seize the capital city.

Djotodia met the press Friday and said that he will lead the country through a transitional period to elections in 2016, and he pledged he would not be a candidate in those polls. He vowed to strengthen the rule of law and freedom of expression in the country.

In Johannesburg, South African President Jacob Zuma announced he will visit Central African Republic on April 3 to attend a summit of the Economic Community of Central African States.