CAR Prepares for the Voting Stations as Incumbent Aims for a Third Term

On Sunday, the nation of CAR will undertake a crucial quadruple election, including the presidency, parliament, and municipal offices.

A Competitive Presidential Field

A field of seven contenders are competing for the top office, among them ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were cleared to stand by the constitutional 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 opposition aims to capitalize on widespread frustration in a nation where conflict remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as refugees in bordering states.

"This is an opportunity to commend the remarkable recovery of the nation," said a senior UN diplomat, though he added that challenges persist.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is widely expected to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named 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 runoff win in 2016.

Security Concerns and Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could mar the electoral process, especially in the countryside. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is offering protection and organizational aid that the state's crumbling infrastructure is unable to provide.

Further issues involve the electoral roll being published only online, a significant barrier in a nation with scarce online access. These issues have led to an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the population."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many residents worry that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 constitutional referendum that scrapped term limits and extended mandates—would entail expanded sway for outside interests.

The president has put faith in the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Allegations have stated the government removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to accommodate a Rwandan agricultural project. A pro-opposition commentary accused the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the nation bit by bit."

Despite a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of stabilization, the vote moves forward under a shadow of uncertainty and external rivalry.