Central African Republic Goes to the Ballot Box as President Pursues a Third Term
This Sunday, the nation of CAR will conduct a significant series of four votes, including the presidential race, parliament, and local seats.
A Competitive Race for the Presidency
A field of seven contenders are vying for the presidency, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to run by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.
Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations
The opposition hopes to tap into widespread frustration in a nation where violence remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as refugees in neighbouring countries.
"This is an opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress of the country," said a senior UN diplomat, adding that obstacles remain.
The Incumbent's Path
Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, serving until a insurgent alliance toppled the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.
After a chaotic three-year interim, his perceived impartiality from the main militias fueled his runoff win in 2016.
Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles
Concerns persist that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the vote, particularly in the countryside. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is offering security and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure cannot manage.
Additional problems involve the voter list being published only online, a significant barrier in a country with limited internet access. These issues have led to an electoral boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."
Implications of Extended Rule
Many residents worry that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that scrapped term limits and lengthened mandates—would mean greater influence for outside interests.
The president has relied on the private military group Wagner for personal security, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a different approach, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.
Claims of National Disposal
Recent reports have claimed the government evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A pro-opposition commentary charged the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the country bit by bit."
Amid a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of calm, the election proceeds under a cloud of uncertainty and external rivalry.
