CAR Heads to the Polls as Incumbent Seeks a Third Mandate

On Sunday, the Central African Republic will conduct a crucial quadruple election, including the presidential race, parliament, and local seats.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are vying for the top office, including 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.

Challengers' Strategy 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 refugees in bordering states.

"This is an opportunity to commend the significant progress of the nation," said a senior UN diplomat, though he added that challenges remain.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is widely expected to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a insurgent alliance toppled the government in 2013, triggering a civil war.

After a turbulent three-year interim, his reputation for impartiality from the main militias fueled his second-round victory in 2016.

Security Concerns and Voting Challenges

There are fears that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the vote, particularly in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing security and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Additional problems involve the electoral roll being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with limited internet access. These irregularities have prompted an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

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

The president has relied on the private military group Wagner for his protection, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

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

Despite a recent peace accord with rebel groups offering hope of stabilization, the election moves forward under a shadow of uncertainty and geopolitical competition.