Seven candidates appeared on the presidential ballot, including former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra. Both Dologuélé, who was the runner-up in the 2015 and 2020 elections, and Dondra, who briefly served under Touadéra, received clearance to run from the constitutional court after initial disqualifications.
The opposition aims to capitalize on widespread discontent stemming from ongoing conflict within the country. The election takes place against a backdrop of persistent instability, with armed groups controlling significant portions of the Central African Republic.
Touadéra's bid for a third term has been met with criticism from opposition parties and civil society organizations, who argue it violates constitutional term limits. Supporters of the president, however, maintain that a constitutional amendment in 2022 reset the term count, allowing him to run again. The constitutional court upheld the amendment's validity.
The election's outcome will likely shape the future trajectory of the Central African Republic, particularly concerning security and governance. International observers are present to monitor the electoral process, and the results are expected to be announced in the coming days. The potential for disputes and challenges to the results remains a concern, given the country's history of political instability.
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