Central African Republic Goes to the Voting Stations as Incumbent Pursues a Third Term
On Sunday, the nation of CAR will hold a significant series of four votes, encompassing the presidential race, parliament, and local seats.
A Competitive Presidential Field
Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to stand by the high court after initial bans. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.
Opposition Hopes and Public Discontent
The opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a nation where conflict remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as exiles in bordering states.
"This is an chance to acknowledge the significant progress of the nation," said a UN regional official, adding that challenges persist.
The Incumbent's Path
Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a insurgent alliance toppled the government in 2013, sparking a sectarian conflict.
After a chaotic transition period, his reputation for neutrality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.
Election Risks and Voting Challenges
Concerns persist that supply-chain issues and violence could mar the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and organizational aid that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.
Further issues include the electoral roll being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a country with scarce online access. These irregularities have led to an electoral boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the population."
Implications of Extended Rule
Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would entail expanded sway for foreign actors.
The president has put faith in the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. Meanwhile, Rwanda has taken a separate strategy, focusing on business ventures within CAR.
Claims of National Disposal
Allegations have claimed the government evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded facility to make way for a foreign-run agricultural project. A pro-opposition commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the country bit by bit."
Amid a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering hope of calm, the vote moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and geopolitical competition.