CAR Goes to the Voting Stations as President Seeks a Third Term

On Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a pivotal series of four votes, encompassing the presidency, national assembly, and local seats.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are competing for the presidency, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to stand by the constitutional court after being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent.

Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent

The challengers aims to tap into widespread discontent in a country where conflict remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This is an chance to commend the remarkable recovery of the nation," said a senior UN diplomat, though he added that challenges remain.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a sectarian conflict.

After a chaotic three-year interim, his reputation for neutrality from the warring factions fueled his second-round victory in 2016.

Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles

Concerns persist that supply-chain issues and violence could mar the electoral process, particularly in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and logistical support that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.

Additional problems involve the voter list being published only online, a significant barrier in a nation with scarce online access. These issues 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 scrapped term limits and lengthened 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 successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Allegations have stated the government removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to make way for a foreign-run livestock operation. A critical editorial accused the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of calm, the election moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and external rivalry.