🔗 Share this article

On Sunday, the nation of CAR will conduct a significant quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, national assembly, and municipal positions.

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 given approval to stand by the constitutional court after initial bans. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served 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 exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This is an chance to commend the significant progress of the country," noted a senior UN diplomat, adding that challenges remain.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a chaotic three-year interim, his reputation for impartiality from the warring factions powered his runoff win in 2016.

Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles

Concerns persist that logistical problems and violence could disrupt the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering security and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure cannot manage.

Additional problems involve the voter list being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a country with scarce online access. These issues have led to an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the population."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail expanded sway for outside interests.

The president has relied on the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Allegations have stated the government evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to accommodate a foreign-run agricultural project. A critical editorial accused the leadership of being "intent on sell off the country bit by bit."

Amid a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of calm, the election moves forward under a cloud of doubt and geopolitical rivalry.