CAR Goes to the Polls as President Aims for a Third Mandate
On Sunday, the nation of CAR will undertake a significant quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, national assembly, and municipal offices.
A Competitive Race for the Presidency
Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to run by the high court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent.
Opposition Hopes and Public Discontent
The opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a nation where violence remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as exiles in neighbouring countries.
"This represents an chance to commend the significant progress of the nation," noted a senior UN diplomat, though he added that challenges persist.
The Incumbent's Path
Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.
After a turbulent transition period, his reputation for impartiality from the main militias powered his runoff win in 2016.
Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles
There are fears that logistical problems and violence could disrupt the electoral process, especially in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.
Additional problems involve the electoral roll being made available only digitally, a major hurdle in a nation with scarce online access. These issues have led to an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "exclude many of the population."
Stakes of a Third Term
Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that scrapped term limits and lengthened mandates—would mean greater influence for outside interests.
The president has relied on the private military group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR.
Allegations of Asset Sales
Recent reports have claimed the government removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to make way for a Rwandan agricultural project. A pro-opposition commentary charged the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the country bit by bit."
Amid a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of calm, the vote proceeds under a cloud of uncertainty and geopolitical rivalry.
