Coup attempt reported in Central African Republic

Western diplomatic sources said a government minister apparently tried to stage a coup in the Central African Republic Wednesday night and said there had been riots in the capital, Bangui.

Quoting reports from Bangui, the sources said Information Minister Francois Bozize made a broadcast over Bangui radio shortly before midnight calling for President Andre Kolingba to step down.

In a dispatch from Bangui, the French daily Le Monde said General Bozize accused President Kolingba of treason.