President Faustin Archange Touadéra of the Central African Republic (CAR) has secured a third term in office after winning an outright majority in last month’s presidential election, according to provisional results announced late Monday.
The 68-year-old former mathematics professor, who has led the country since 2016, was widely expected to retain power after the main opposition coalition boycotted the poll, citing concerns over electoral fairness.
Touadéra campaigned heavily on his security record in a nation plagued by instability since rebels seized power in 2013, prompting the government to enlist Russian mercenaries and Rwandan soldiers.
Preliminary figures show Touadéra won 76 percent of the vote, while former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri Marie Dondra received 15 percent and 3 percent respectively.
Both challengers have called for the results to be annulled, alleging fraud and irregularities. The opposition coalition BRDC boycotted the election, insisting it was unlikely to be fair.
Observers described the December 28 vote as largely peaceful, despite logistical delays. The Constitutional Court has until January 20 to rule on legal challenges and declare final results.
Touadéra’s continued hold on power has drawn criticism since the adoption of a 2023 constitution that removed presidential term limits.
Analysts warn his victory could deepen Russia’s influence, given Moscow’s security support in exchange for access to resources such as gold and diamonds.
The Wagner Group has been active in the country, providing protection to Touadéra’s government.
The Central African Republic remains one of Africa’s poorest and most unstable nations, despite vast natural resources.
The UN estimates half the population relies on humanitarian aid, underscoring the challenges Touadéra faces in his new term.
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Why are was the 2023 presidential tenure adopted? That’s the first question. Second is, the country as it is, is drowning, why not step aside and let someone take the reigns? Third would be, 79% votes? Wow, just wow.