Central African Republic rebel leader Michel Djotodia has been elected president by the National Transitional Council.

Djotodia was the only candidate and was elected unanimously Saturday by the 105 members of the National Transitional Council in a ceremony that was attended by political leaders, the press and representatives of international organizations accredited in Central African Republic.

Djotodia led the Seleka rebels who overthrew President Francois Bozize three weeks ago. Djotodia has 18 months to set up elections to select a new leader, according to guidelines set by neighboring countries in the Economic Community of Central African States.

Leaders of the neighboring countries are expected to attend a summit on April 15, 2013 in N'Djamena, Chad, to consider the situation in Central African Republic.