Central African Republic Goes to the Voting Stations as President Aims for a Third Stint in Office

This Sunday, the nation of CAR will hold a pivotal quadruple election, including the presidential race, national assembly, and municipal offices.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

Seven candidates are competing for the top office, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to stand by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra had a short tenure under the current president.

Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent

The challengers hopes to capitalize on widespread frustration in a country where conflict remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as refugees in bordering states.

"This is an opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress of the country," noted a senior UN diplomat, though he added that obstacles remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is widely expected to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a chaotic three-year interim, his reputation for 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 disrupt the vote, particularly in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is offering security and organizational aid that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Further issues involve the voter list being published only online, a significant barrier in a country with limited internet access. These issues have led to an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would entail greater influence for outside interests.

The president has relied on the Russian mercenary group Wagner for his protection, and even after its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on commercial interests within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Recent reports have stated the government evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to accommodate a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical editorial accused the leadership of being "determined to sell off the country bit by bit."

Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of calm, the vote moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and geopolitical rivalry.