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On Sunday, the nation of CAR will undertake a significant series of four votes, encompassing the presidential race, parliament, and municipal seats.

A Crowded Race for the Presidency

Seven candidates are vying for the presidency, among them ex-premiers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both men were given approval to stand by the constitutional 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 Voter Frustrations

The challengers hopes to tap into widespread discontent in a country where conflict remains a constant threat. More than half a million people are internally displaced, with a similar number living as refugees in neighbouring countries.

"This is an chance to commend the remarkable recovery of the country," noted a senior UN diplomat, adding that challenges remain.

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, holding the post until a rebel coalition overthrew the government in 2013, sparking a civil war.

After a chaotic transition period, his perceived impartiality from the warring factions powered his runoff win in 2016.

Election Risks and Voting Challenges

Concerns persist that logistical problems and insecurity could disrupt the electoral process, especially in the countryside. The UN peacekeeping mission, Minusca, is providing protection and logistical support that the country's weak systems cannot manage.

Further issues involve the voter list being made available only digitally, a major hurdle in a country with limited internet access. These issues have prompted an opposition boycott and could, as noted by analysts, "disenfranchise large segments of the electorate."

Stakes of a Third Term

Many residents fear that another term for Touadéra—enabled by a 2023 charter change that scrapped term limits and lengthened mandates—would entail greater influence for foreign actors.

The president has put faith in the Russian mercenary group Wagner for personal security, and despite its founder's death, has resisted calls to integrate its fighters into a successor entity. Meanwhile, Rwanda has pursued a different approach, focusing on commercial ventures within CAR.

Allegations of Asset Sales

Recent reports have stated the government evicted its own soldiers from a internationally financed training centre to accommodate a Rwandan livestock operation. A critical commentary accused the leadership of being "intent on dispose of the country piece by piece."

Despite a newly signed agreement with rebel groups offering hope of stabilization, the vote moves forward under a cloud of uncertainty and external competition.