To provide a color image forming apparatus in which access to an image forming part, which includes an intermediate transfer body, an image carrier, a developing device, etc., by a user is facilitated and repair or replacement of the intermediate transfer body or jam removal and operability in case of a jam are remarkably improved.

The color image forming apparatus 100 has an intermediate transfer unit holding means 100 which holds an intermediate transfer unit 5 so as to allow the movement of the intermediate transfer unit 5 between an operating position and non-operating position, and in which it is attached to the main body 200 of the image forming apparatus so as to be freely opened or closed. The intermediate transfer unit 5 is attached to the intermediate transfer unit holding means 100 so as to be freely detached.

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