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On Sunday, the Central African Republic will hold a significant series of four votes, encompassing the presidential race, parliament, and municipal offices.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are vying for the presidency, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to run by the constitutional court after being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the last two elections, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent

The challengers aims to capitalize on widespread frustration in a country where violence remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to acknowledge the remarkable recovery of the country," noted a UN regional official, though he added that challenges remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a one-time academic, is widely expected to extend his run. He transitioned into politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a civil war.

After a turbulent transition period, his reputation for neutrality from the warring factions powered his runoff win in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could disrupt the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is offering protection and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure cannot manage.

Further issues involve the voter list being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a country with scarce online access. These irregularities have led to an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the population."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many citizens fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would entail greater influence for outside interests.

The president has put faith in the Russian mercenary group Wagner for his protection, and even after its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a separate strategy, focusing on commercial interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Allegations have stated the government evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to make way for a foreign-run livestock operation. A critical commentary charged the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering a glimmer of stabilization, the election proceeds under a shadow of uncertainty and external rivalry.