CAR Goes to the Ballot Box as President Aims for a Third Mandate
This Sunday, the Central African Republic will hold a pivotal series of four votes, including the presidency, national assembly, and local positions.
A Competitive Race for the Presidency
A field of seven contenders are competing for the presidency, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were cleared to stand by the constitutional court after initial bans. Dologuélé finished second in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.
Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent
The challengers hopes to tap into widespread discontent in a nation where conflict remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as refugees in bordering states.
"This represents an opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the country," said a senior UN diplomat, though he added that challenges remain.
The Incumbent's Path
Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.
After a turbulent transition period, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions fueled his runoff win in 2016.
Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles
There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could mar the electoral process, especially in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.
Further issues involve the electoral roll being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with scarce online access. These issues have led to an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the electorate."
Implications of Extended Rule
Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would mean greater influence for outside interests.
The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on business interests within CAR.
Allegations of Asset Sales
Recent reports have claimed the administration evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to make way for a Rwandan agricultural project. A critical commentary accused the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation bit by bit."
Amid a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of stabilization, the vote moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and external competition.
