CAR Goes to the Ballot Box as President Pursues a Third Term
On Sunday, the nation of CAR will hold a significant quadruple election, including the presidential race, national assembly, and local positions.
A Crowded Race for the Presidency
Seven candidates are competing for the top office, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to run by the constitutional court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent.
Challengers' Strategy and Voter Frustrations
The challengers aims to capitalize on widespread frustration in a nation where violence remains a constant threat. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as exiles in bordering states.
"This is an opportunity to commend the remarkable recovery of the country," said a senior UN diplomat, adding that obstacles persist.
Touadéra's Expected Victory
Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, sparking a sectarian conflict.
After a turbulent three-year interim, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.
Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles
There are fears that supply-chain issues and insecurity could disrupt the vote, especially in the countryside. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing security and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage.
Further issues include the voter list being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with scarce online access. These irregularities have led to an electoral boycott and could, according to observers, "exclude many of the population."
Implications of Extended Rule
Many citizens worry 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 his protection, and even after its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR.
Claims of National Disposal
Allegations have stated the government evicted 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 country piece by piece."
Amid a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering hope of calm, the vote proceeds under a cloud of doubt and geopolitical competition.
