Central African Republic Heads to the Polls as President Pursues a Third Mandate

This Sunday, the nation of CAR will undertake a crucial quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, parliament, and local positions.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are competing for the top office, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were cleared to stand by the constitutional court after initial bans. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Opposition Hopes and Public Discontent

The challengers hopes to capitalize on widespread frustration in a country where violence remains a constant threat. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This is an chance to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the country," said a UN regional official, adding 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 overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.

After a turbulent transition period, his reputation for neutrality from the main militias fueled his second-round victory in 2016.

Security Concerns and Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could disrupt the vote, particularly in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.

Additional problems include the voter list being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with limited internet access. These issues have prompted an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the population."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many residents worry that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that scrapped term limits and extended mandates—would entail greater influence for outside interests.

The president has put faith in the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and despite its founder's death, has resisted calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a different approach, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Recent reports have claimed the administration evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded facility to accommodate a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation bit by bit."

Despite a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of stabilization, the vote proceeds under a shadow of doubt and external rivalry.