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On Sunday, the Central African Republic will conduct a significant quadruple election, including the presidential race, parliament, and local seats.

A Crowded Race for the Presidency

Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, among them ex-premiers 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 last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the current president.

Challengers' Strategy and Voter Frustrations

The challengers aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a country where conflict remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an chance to commend the remarkable recovery of the country," noted a senior UN diplomat, though he added that obstacles remain.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, holding the post until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a civil war.

After a chaotic three-year interim, his reputation for impartiality from the main militias powered his second-round victory in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

Concerns persist that logistical problems and insecurity could mar the electoral process, especially in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.

Further issues involve the voter list being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These issues have prompted an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "exclude many of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—made possible 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 Russian mercenary group Wagner for his protection, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Recent reports have claimed the government removed its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on sell off the nation bit by bit."

Amid a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of calm, the vote proceeds under a cloud of doubt and external competition.