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This Sunday, the Central African Republic will undertake a pivotal quadruple election, encompassing the presidency, national assembly, and local positions.

A Crowded Presidential Field

A field of seven contenders are competing for the top office, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were cleared to stand by the constitutional court after being initially barred. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra briefly served under the incumbent.

Challengers' Strategy and Public Discontent

The challengers hopes to tap into widespread discontent in a country where conflict remains a constant threat. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a similar number living as exiles in bordering states.

"This represents an chance to commend the significant progress of the nation," noted a senior UN diplomat, 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 first entered politics in 2008 when named prime minister, serving until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a chaotic transition period, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.

Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles

There are fears that logistical problems and violence could mar the vote, especially in the countryside. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is offering protection and organizational aid that the state's crumbling infrastructure is unable to provide.

Additional problems involve the voter list being made available only digitally, a significant barrier in a nation with limited internet access. These issues have prompted an electoral boycott and could, according to observers, "exclude many of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many citizens worry that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished term limits and extended mandates—would mean greater influence for foreign actors.

The president has put faith in the private military group Wagner for his protection, and even after its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to fold its fighters into a new structure. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a separate strategy, focusing on commercial interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

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

Amid a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering hope of stabilization, the election moves forward under a shadow of doubt and external competition.