🔗 Share this article CAR Goes to the Voting Stations as President Pursues a Third Mandate On Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a significant quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, parliament, and local positions. A Competitive Race for the Presidency A field of seven contenders are vying for the presidency, among them ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. The two were given approval to stand by the high court after initial bans. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the last two elections, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent. Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent The opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where violence 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 chance to acknowledge the significant progress of the nation," noted a senior UN diplomat, though he added that obstacles persist. Touadéra's Expected Victory Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is largely predicted to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition toppled the government in 2013, sparking a sectarian conflict. After a turbulent transition period, his reputation for impartiality from the warring factions fueled his runoff win in 2016. Election Risks and Voting Challenges Concerns persist that logistical problems and violence could disrupt the vote, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage. Additional problems include the electoral roll being published only online, a significant barrier in a nation with scarce online access. These irregularities have prompted an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate." Stakes of a Third Term Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that scrapped term limits and extended mandates—would mean expanded sway for foreign actors. The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR. Claims of National Disposal Recent reports have claimed the administration evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to accommodate a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical editorial accused the leadership of being "intent on sell off the country piece by piece." Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of stabilization, the election moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and external rivalry.