Sun Dec 28 08:31:30 UTC 2025: ## CAR Elections Underway Amidst Conflict and Concerns of Foul Play

Bangui, Central African Republic – Voters in the Central African Republic (CAR) headed to the polls Sunday for presidential, parliamentary, and local elections, marking the first local elections in decades. Incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadera, in office since 2016, is projected to win another term, but the election is shadowed by an ongoing civil war and allegations of unfair practices.

Polling stations opened at 05:00 GMT and closed at 17:00 GMT, with approximately 2.3 million registered voters eligible to cast their ballots. The elections come after a controversial 2023 constitutional referendum that allowed Touadera to seek additional terms in office.

While the campaign period was largely peaceful, prominent opposition figures, including Anicet-Georges Dologuele and Henri-Marie Dondra, faced obstacles, including restrictions on travel to hold rallies in the provinces. A heavy security presence, including police, army, and Wagner Group mercenaries, was visible throughout the capital.

The elections are taking place against a backdrop of ongoing civil war since 2013. Despite international efforts, including the United Nations mission MINUSCA and military support from Russia and Rwanda, rebel groups remain active, particularly in border regions.

Touadera’s 2020 re-election was marred by fraud allegations and a rebel uprising. According to political analyst Paul Crescent Beninga, efforts have been made to create the perception of widespread support for Touadera. Opposition figures also faced potential disqualification due to citizenship allegations, with Dologuele even losing his CAR passport despite renouncing his French citizenship.

“But despite their candidacies being approved, many … remain skeptical about the point of voting and the transparency of the elections,” said Beninga. The outcome of the elections remains uncertain, but the process is being closely watched by the international community amid concerns about fairness and the ongoing conflict in the country.

If no candidate wins a majority in the first round, a runoff election will be held.

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