🔗 Share this article

On Sunday, the nation of CAR will undertake a crucial series of four votes, including the presidential race, national assembly, and municipal seats.

A Crowded Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are vying for the presidency, among them ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to stand by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the current president.

Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations

The challengers aims to tap into widespread frustration in a nation where violence remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as refugees in bordering states.

"This is an chance to acknowledge the significant progress of the country," said a UN regional official, adding that challenges remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a turbulent transition period, his reputation for neutrality from the main militias powered his runoff win in 2016.

Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles

There are fears that supply-chain issues and insecurity 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 cannot manage.

Additional problems include the electoral roll being published only online, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These irregularities have prompted 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 scrapped term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail expanded sway for outside interests.

The president has relied on the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Recent reports have claimed the government removed its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to accommodate a foreign-run livestock operation. A pro-opposition commentary accused the leadership of being "determined to sell off the nation bit by bit."

Despite a recent peace accord with rebel groups offering a glimmer of calm, the election proceeds under a shadow of doubt and external competition.