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This Sunday, the Central African Republic will conduct a pivotal series of four votes, including the presidency, national assembly, and local seats.

A Competitive Race for the Presidency

Seven candidates are competing for the presidency, including ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to run by the high court after initial bans. Dologuélé was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 votes, while Dondra had a short tenure under the current president.

Opposition Hopes and Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to capitalize on widespread frustration in a country where violence remains a constant threat. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a comparable figure living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This is an opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress of the nation," said a senior UN diplomat, adding that challenges persist.

Touadéra's Expected Victory

Despite the challenges, 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 toppled the government in 2013, triggering a sectarian conflict.

After a chaotic three-year interim, his perceived neutrality from the warring factions powered his second-round victory in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

There are fears that logistical problems and insecurity could mar the electoral process, particularly in rural areas. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing security and logistical support that the state's crumbling infrastructure is unable to provide.

Further issues involve the voter list being published only online, a significant barrier in a country with scarce online access. These irregularities have prompted an opposition boycott and could, according to observers, "exclude many of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

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

The president has relied on the private military group Wagner for his protection, and despite its founder's death, has pushed back against calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. In contrast, Rwanda has taken a different approach, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.

Claims of National Disposal

Recent reports have stated the administration removed its own soldiers from a internationally financed facility to make way for a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical commentary accused the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the nation piece by piece."

Amid a recent peace accord with armed factions offering a glimmer of calm, the vote proceeds under a shadow of uncertainty and geopolitical rivalry.