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This Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a pivotal quadruple election, including the presidency, parliament, and local offices.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

A field of seven contenders are vying 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 being initially barred. Dologuélé finished second in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Challengers' Strategy and Voter Frustrations

The challengers aims to tap into widespread discontent in a nation where conflict remains a daily reality. More than half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a comparable figure living as exiles in neighbouring countries.

"This represents an opportunity to commend the significant progress of the country," noted a UN regional official, though he added that challenges remain.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the challenges, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to extend his run. He first entered politics in 2008 when appointed prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.

After a turbulent three-year interim, his perceived impartiality from the warring factions fueled his runoff win in 2016.

Security Concerns and Voting Challenges

There are fears that supply-chain issues and insecurity could disrupt the electoral process, especially in the countryside. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems is unable to provide.

Further issues involve the electoral roll being published only online, a major hurdle in a nation with scarce online access. These issues have led to an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Implications of Extended Rule

Many residents worry that another term for Touadéra—made possible by a 2023 charter change that abolished term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail greater influence for foreign actors.

The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for his protection, and despite its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a new structure. In contrast, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on business interests within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Recent reports have claimed the government removed its own soldiers from a World Bank-funded training centre to accommodate a foreign-run agricultural project. A pro-opposition editorial charged the leadership of being "determined to sell off the country bit by bit."

Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering a glimmer of calm, the election moves forward under a shadow of doubt and external competition.