🔗 Share this article Central African Republic Goes to the Voting Stations as President Aims for a Third Term On Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a pivotal quadruple election, including the presidential race, national assembly, and local positions. 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 cleared to run by the constitutional court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent. Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent The opposition hopes to tap into widespread frustration in a nation 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 represents an opportunity to commend the remarkable recovery of the nation," said a UN regional official, adding that obstacles persist. The Incumbent's Path Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, sparking a sectarian conflict. After a chaotic three-year interim, his perceived neutrality from the main militias fueled his runoff win in 2016. Security Concerns and Logistical Hurdles Concerns persist that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the electoral process, especially in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering protection and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure cannot manage. Additional problems include the voter list being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These irregularities have led to an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the population." Implications of Extended Rule Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that scrapped term limits and extended mandates—would mean expanded sway for outside interests. The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on business ventures within CAR. Claims of National Disposal Allegations have stated the government evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to make way for a Rwandan agricultural project. A pro-opposition commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on sell off the nation piece by piece." Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering hope of stabilization, the vote proceeds under a shadow of uncertainty and external competition.