CAR Heads to the Polls as President Pursues a Third Term

On Sunday, the nation of CAR will undertake a crucial series of four votes, encompassing the presidency, parliament, and local positions.

A Crowded Presidential Field

A field of seven contenders are competing for the presidency, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to stand by the constitutional 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 opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where conflict remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as refugees in bordering states.

"This is an opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress of the country," said a UN regional official, adding that challenges remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a sectarian conflict.

After a turbulent three-year interim, his reputation for impartiality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.

Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles

Concerns persist that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the vote, particularly in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Further issues include the voter list being published only online, a major hurdle in a country with limited internet access. These irregularities have prompted an opposition 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—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would mean expanded sway for outside interests.

The president has relied on the Russian mercenary group Wagner for his protection, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Allegations have claimed the government evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical editorial charged the leadership of being "intent on sell off the country piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering a glimmer of stabilization, the vote moves forward under a shadow of doubt and external rivalry.