Central African Republic (CAR) voters are heading to the polls on Sunday, where President Faustin-Archange Touadéra is seeking a controversial third term. The election encompasses not only the presidency but also parliamentary and local offices, with 2.3 million registered voters participating in what is being described as a quadruple election.

Election Context
Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both candidates were initially barred from running but received clearance from the constitutional court. Dologuélé, who finished as runner-up in the previous two elections, and Dondra, who served briefly under Touadéra, are expected to challenge the incumbent. The opposition is capitalizing on widespread discontent among citizens, many of whom are affected by ongoing conflict and instability in the country.

Humanitarian Concerns
The Central African Republic continues to grapple with severe humanitarian issues, with over half a million people internally displaced and a similar number living as refugees in neighboring countries. This ongoing crisis has created a backdrop of frustration that opposition candidates hope to leverage in their campaigns. Despite these challenges, Touadéra, who has been in power since 2016, is anticipated to secure another term, bolstered by a perception of neutrality during his initial rise to power.

Security and Logistical Challenges
The electoral process faces significant hurdles, including supply-chain issues and violence that could disrupt voting, particularly in rural areas. The United Nations peacekeeping mission, Minusca, has been tasked with providing security and logistical support amidst a crumbling infrastructure. However, there are concerns about the integrity of the electoral process, as the voter list was only published online, limiting access for many citizens who lack internet connectivity or electricity.

Opposition Boycott and Electoral Integrity
The irregularities surrounding the election have prompted a coalition of opposition politicians to announce a boycott, citing disenfranchisement risks for large segments of the population. Human Rights Watch's Central Africa director, Lewis Mudge, emphasized that these issues could undermine the election's legitimacy. The recent constitutional referendum, which eliminated term limits and extended presidential mandates, has further fueled concerns about the fairness of the election process.

Wrap-up
As the Central African Republic approaches this pivotal election, the outcome remains uncertain amid significant political tension and humanitarian challenges. Observers are closely monitoring the voting process and its implications for the future governance of the nation.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team