Central African Republic Prepares for the Ballot Box as President Seeks a Third Mandate

On Sunday, the nation of CAR will hold a significant quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, national assembly, and municipal positions.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to run by the high court after initial bans. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra had a short tenure under the current president.

Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to tap into widespread frustration in a country where conflict remains a constant threat. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to commend the remarkable recovery of the country," noted a senior UN diplomat, adding that challenges remain.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, triggering 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 Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could mar the vote, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and organizational aid that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Additional problems involve the electoral roll being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with limited internet access. These irregularities have led to an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 charter change that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would mean expanded sway for outside interests.

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

Claims of National Disposal

Recent reports have stated the government removed its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to accommodate a Rwandan agricultural project. A critical commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the country bit by bit."

Amid a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of stabilization, the election moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and geopolitical rivalry.