🔗 Share this article

On Sunday, the Central African Republic will hold a crucial quadruple election, including the presidency, national assembly, and local seats.

A Competitive Presidential Field

Seven candidates are competing for the presidency, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to stand by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra had a short tenure under the current president.

Opposition Hopes and Public Discontent

The opposition aims to tap into widespread frustration in a country where violence remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to commend the significant progress of the nation," noted a senior UN diplomat, adding that obstacles persist.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the competition, 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, holding the post until a insurgent alliance toppled the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.

After a chaotic transition period, his reputation for neutrality from the warring factions fueled his runoff win in 2016.

Security Concerns and Voting Challenges

Concerns persist that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering protection and organizational aid that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Additional problems include the voter list being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with scarce online access. These issues have prompted an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 constitutional referendum that scrapped term limits and extended mandates—would mean greater influence for foreign actors.

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

Claims of National Disposal

Allegations have stated the government removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A pro-opposition editorial charged the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the nation bit by bit."

Despite a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of calm, the vote moves forward under a shadow of doubt and external competition.