CAR Prepares for the Polls as President Seeks a Third Term

This Sunday, the nation of CAR will conduct a pivotal series of four votes, including the presidency, national assembly, and municipal positions.

A Crowded Race for the Presidency

Seven candidates are vying for the top office, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to stand by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the current president.

Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where violence remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to commend the significant progress of the nation," noted a UN regional official, adding that obstacles persist.

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 appointed prime minister, serving until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a civil war.

After a chaotic transition period, his perceived neutrality from the main militias fueled his runoff win in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

There are fears that logistical problems and violence could disrupt the vote, especially in the countryside. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing security and organizational aid that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Additional problems include the voter list 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, "disenfranchise large segments of the population."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many citizens worry 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 despite its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Allegations have stated the administration evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded facility to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A pro-opposition commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on sell off the country bit by bit."

Amid a recent peace accord with armed factions offering a glimmer of calm, the vote proceeds under a cloud of doubt and external rivalry.