🔗 Share this article CAR Heads to the Polls as President Pursues a Third Mandate This Sunday, the nation of CAR will hold a significant quadruple election, including the presidential race, parliament, and municipal positions. A Crowded Race for the Presidency A field of seven contenders are competing for the top office, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to run by the high court after initial bans. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra had a short tenure under the incumbent. Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations The challengers hopes to capitalize on widespread frustration in a country where conflict remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as refugees in neighbouring countries. "This represents an opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress of the nation," noted a UN regional official, adding that challenges remain. The Incumbent's Path Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is largely predicted to secure another term. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict. After a turbulent transition period, his perceived impartiality from the main militias fueled his second-round victory in 2016. Election Risks and Voting Challenges Concerns persist that logistical problems and violence could disrupt the vote, particularly in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage. Additional problems include the electoral roll being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These issues have prompted an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the population." 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 mean greater influence for outside interests. The president has relied on the private military group Wagner for his protection, and even after its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued 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 foreign-run agricultural project. A critical commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on sell off the nation bit by bit." Despite a recent peace accord with armed factions offering hope of stabilization, the election moves forward under a shadow of uncertainty and geopolitical rivalry.