The leader of rebels who have seized the capital of the Central African Republic is suspending the constitution and dissolving parliament.
Michel Djotodia says there will be a transition period until "credible and transparent" elections, during which he will "legislate by decree", reports the BBC.
He says he would uphold a peace deal that promises elections in three years.
About 5000 Seleka fighters swept into the capital, Bangui, on Sunday after the collapse of a power-sharing deal - the Libreville Accord.
"I consider it necessary to suspend the November 27, 2004 constitution, to dissolve parliament as well as the government," Mr Djotodia said in a statement to reporters.
Following the takeover, the African Union suspended CAR and imposed sanctions on rebel leaders.
Ousted CAR leader Francois Bozize has fled to neighbouring Cameroon.