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On Sunday, the Central African Republic will hold a significant quadruple election, including the presidential race, national assembly, and municipal positions.

A Competitive Presidential Field

Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, among them former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to stand by the high 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 Public Discontent

The challengers aims to capitalize on widespread discontent in a nation where conflict remains a daily reality. Over half a million people are displaced within their own country, with a similar number living as exiles in bordering states.

"This represents an opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress of the nation," said a UN regional official, though he added that challenges persist.

The Incumbent's Path

Despite the competition, President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, is widely expected to secure another term. He first entered politics in 2008 when named prime minister, holding the post until a insurgent alliance overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a turbulent transition period, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions fueled his runoff win in 2016.

Election Risks and Logistical Hurdles

There are fears that supply-chain issues and violence could disrupt the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN stabilization force, Minusca, is offering protection and organizational aid that the state's crumbling infrastructure is unable to provide.

Further issues include the voter list being published only online, a significant barrier in a country with scarce online access. These issues have prompted an electoral boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

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

The president has relied on the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and even after its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on commercial interests within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Allegations have claimed the administration removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A pro-opposition editorial charged the leadership of being "determined to dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with armed factions offering hope of calm, the election proceeds under a shadow of doubt and external rivalry.