CAR Heads to the Voting Stations as President Seeks a Third Mandate

This Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a pivotal quadruple election, encompassing the presidential race, parliament, and local seats.

A Crowded Presidential Field

A field of seven contenders are vying for the top office, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to run by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Challengers' Strategy and Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to tap into widespread frustration in a country where conflict remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to commend the remarkable recovery of the nation," said a UN regional official, though he added that challenges remain.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to secure another term. He first entered politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a turbulent transition period, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions fueled his second-round victory in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

Concerns persist that logistical problems and violence could mar the electoral process, particularly in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering protection and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure is unable to provide.

Further issues include the electoral roll being published only online, a significant barrier in a nation with scarce online access. These irregularities have prompted an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the population."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many residents worry that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 charter change that abolished 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 despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a separate strategy, focusing on business ventures within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Recent reports have claimed the administration evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded facility to accommodate a foreign-run agricultural project. A pro-opposition editorial charged the leadership of being "intent on sell off the country bit by bit."

Despite a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering a glimmer of calm, the vote proceeds under a cloud of uncertainty and geopolitical competition.