Central African Republic's Presidential Election: Faustin-Archange Touadera's Controversial Third Term Bid

Central African Republic (CAR) President Faustin-Archange Touadera is seeking a third term in the presidential election scheduled for December 25, 2025. This election follows a controversial 2023 constitutional referendum that eliminated presidential term limits, allowing Touadera to extend his tenure beyond the original two-term cap. Analysts predict his victory due to his control over state resources and institutions, as well as support from Russian mercenaries and Rwandan forces.

The Straits Times

Touadera, 68, has been in power since 2016 and has relied heavily on Russian support, particularly from the Wagner Group, which has been involved in security operations in exchange for access to CAR's natural resources, including gold and diamonds. He faces six opposition candidates, notably Anicet-Georges Dologuele, a former prime minister and runner-up in the 2020 election. Dologuele has criticized the electoral process, labeling it an "electoral sham" and accusing Touadera of attempting to establish a presidency for life.

Six candidates challenge CAR’s President Touadera

The election occurs amid a backdrop of fragile security, despite recent peace deals with several rebel groups. While these agreements have reportedly reduced violence in some areas, significant threats remain, including incomplete disarmament and incursions from armed groups in neighboring Sudan. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects economic growth of approximately 3% for 2025, yet two-thirds of the population continues to live in extreme poverty.

CAR’s Touadera Seeks Third Term Amid Russian Ties and Crypto Push

Touadera has campaigned on the narrative of improved security and infrastructure, stating, "When I came to power in 2016, you couldn’t travel 10 km without being harassed. There was no security, no roads, nothing." His administration has also launched initiatives to attract foreign investment, including cryptocurrency ventures and infrastructure projects. However, critics argue that these efforts have not alleviated poverty or improved living conditions for the majority of citizens.

CAR’s Touadera Seeks Third Term Amid Russian Ties and Crypto Push

Opposition figures have raised concerns about the legitimacy of the electoral process, citing past allegations of electoral fraud and the marginalization of dissenting voices. Dologuele has called for transparency, criticizing the National Election Authority for perceived bias. Analysts warn that the potential for unrest remains high, as grievances over political repression and allegations of electoral fraud could incite violence following the election.

The Straits Times

While some sources indicate a decline in violence due to peace agreements, others highlight ongoing security threats and the risk of renewed conflict. The extent of Russian involvement and its implications for CAR's sovereignty and human rights remains a contentious issue, with reports of abuses by Russian mercenaries complicating the narrative of stability.

Russia, bitcoin, and ballots, inside Touadera’s 3rd term push in Central African Republic

The election results are expected to be announced by January 5, 2026. Should no candidate secure more than 50% of the vote, a runoff is scheduled for February 15, 2026. The international community will likely continue to scrutinize the electoral process and the implications of Touadera's reliance on foreign security assistance as the country navigates its complex political landscape.

The Straits Times

• "During the 10 years that we have been working together, you yourselves have seen that peace is beginning to return." — Faustin-Archange Touadera, President of CAR

The Straits Times

• "The election will take place in an atmosphere marked by heightened grievances over political marginalization." — Robert Besseling, Chief Executive of Pangea-Risk

The Straits Times

• "We are always promised jobs and schools, but many young people remain unemployed." — Clarisse, university student in Bangui

Reuters

• "There are a lot of ingredients that could lead to a renewed cycle of violence." — Nathalia Dukhan, Analyst at the Global Initiative Against Transnational Crime

Russia, bitcoin, and ballots, inside Touadera’s 3rd term push in Central African Republic