🔗 Share this article

On Sunday, the nation of CAR will conduct a crucial quadruple election, including the presidential race, parliament, and local offices.

A Competitive Presidential Field

A field of seven contenders are vying for the top office, among them ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to run by the high court after initial bans. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the current president.

Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent

The opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a nation where violence remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This is an opportunity to commend the significant progress of the country," said a senior UN diplomat, though he added that obstacles remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

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

After a turbulent three-year interim, his perceived neutrality from the main militias fueled his runoff win in 2016.

Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles

There are fears that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Further issues involve the electoral roll being published only online, a significant barrier 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 electorate."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 charter change that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail greater influence for foreign actors.

The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for personal security, and despite its founder's death, has resisted calls to fold 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 administration evicted its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded facility to make way for a Rwandan agricultural project. A critical commentary charged the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering a glimmer of calm, the vote proceeds under a shadow of doubt and geopolitical competition.