🔗 Share this article

This Sunday, the Central African Republic will hold a pivotal quadruple election, including the presidency, parliament, and local positions.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are competing for the presidency, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to run by the constitutional court after being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where violence remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a similar number living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This is an opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the nation," said a senior UN diplomat, though he added that challenges persist.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.

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

Security Concerns and Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could disrupt the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Additional problems involve the voter list being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with limited internet access. These irregularities have led to an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the population."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail greater influence 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 fold its fighters into a successor entity. Meanwhile, Rwanda has taken a different approach, 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 facility to accommodate a foreign-run agricultural project. A pro-opposition commentary accused the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering a glimmer of calm, the election proceeds under a shadow of doubt and geopolitical rivalry.