A color image forming apparatus is described, which makes highly durable image transferring possible. The color image forming apparatus includes: primary transferring devices to transfer unicolor toner images respectively formed on image bearing members onto an intermediate transfer member; a secondary transferring device to transfer the multi-color toner image onto a transfer material; a discharging device before secondary transfer, disposed at a position between a primary transferring device and the secondary transferring device; an electric discharge electrode disposed at a position opposing to the intermediate transfer member; an opposing electrode disposed at a position opposing to the electric discharge electrode while putting the intermediate transfer member between them; and a separating device to make the opposing electrode movable between an operating position at which the opposing electrode contacts the intermediate transfer member and a separating position being apart from the intermediate transfer member.