🔗 Share this article

On Sunday, the Central African Republic will conduct a significant quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, parliament, and municipal positions.

A Competitive Presidential Field

Seven candidates are competing for the top office, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to run by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Challengers' Strategy and Voter Frustrations

The challengers aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a nation where conflict remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a similar number living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This is an chance to commend the significant progress of the nation," noted a UN regional official, adding that challenges remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a turbulent three-year interim, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and insecurity could mar the electoral process, especially in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure is unable to provide.

Further issues include the electoral roll being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These issues have prompted an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 constitutional referendum that scrapped term limits and lengthened mandates—would mean greater influence for outside interests.

The president has put faith in the Russian mercenary group Wagner for his protection, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Allegations have claimed the government evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to make way for a foreign-run livestock operation. A pro-opposition editorial charged the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation bit by bit."

Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering hope of calm, the vote proceeds under a shadow of doubt and geopolitical rivalry.