CAR Goes to the Polls as Incumbent Seeks a Third Term
On Sunday, the nation of CAR will hold a crucial quadruple election, encompassing the presidential race, parliament, and local offices.
A Competitive Presidential Field
Seven candidates are competing 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 initial bans. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent.
Opposition Hopes and Public Discontent
The challengers aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where conflict remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as exiles in neighbouring countries.
"This is an chance to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the country," said a UN regional official, adding that challenges persist.
Touadéra's Expected Victory
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, serving until a insurgent alliance toppled the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.
After a chaotic transition period, his perceived impartiality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.
Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles
Concerns persist that supply-chain issues 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 voter list being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with scarce online access. These irregularities have led to an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the population."
Implications of Extended Rule
Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail greater influence for foreign actors.
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. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on commercial interests within CAR.
Allegations of Asset Sales
Allegations have stated the administration evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to accommodate a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical commentary accused the leadership of being "determined to sell off the country bit by bit."
Amid a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering hope of stabilization, the vote proceeds under a shadow of doubt and external competition.
