🔗 Share this article

This Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a crucial series of four votes, encompassing the presidential race, parliament, and municipal offices.

A Crowded Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are competing for the top office, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to run by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the current president.

Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to tap into widespread frustration in a nation where violence remains a constant threat. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an chance to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the country," said a senior UN diplomat, adding that challenges persist.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a insurgent alliance toppled the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a chaotic transition period, his reputation for neutrality from the warring factions fueled his second-round victory in 2016.

Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles

There are fears that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the electoral process, especially in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and organizational aid that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.

Further issues involve the voter list being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a country with limited internet access. These issues have led to an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 charter change that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would mean expanded sway for outside interests.

The president has relied on the Russian mercenary group Wagner for his protection, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a separate strategy, focusing on business ventures within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Recent reports have stated the government evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical editorial charged the leadership of being "determined to sell off the nation piece by piece."

Amid a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering hope of stabilization, the vote moves forward under a shadow of doubt and external rivalry.