🔗 Share this article

This Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a pivotal series of four votes, including the presidency, national assembly, and local seats.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are vying for the top office, among them ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to stand by the constitutional court after initial bans. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the current president.

Challengers' Strategy and Voter Frustrations

The opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where violence remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the country," noted a UN regional official, though he added that obstacles persist.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to secure another term. He first entered politics in 2008 when named prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.

After a turbulent transition period, his perceived impartiality from the main militias powered his runoff win in 2016.

Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles

There are fears that supply-chain issues and insecurity could mar the vote, especially in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is offering security and organizational aid that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.

Additional problems involve the electoral roll being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These issues have led to an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the population."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would entail expanded sway for outside interests.

The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for personal security, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a different approach, focusing on business ventures within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Allegations have stated the government removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to accommodate a foreign-run agricultural project. A pro-opposition commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Amid a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of calm, the election moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and external competition.