Seven candidates were on the ballot for the presidential election. Among them were former prime ministers Anicet Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra, both of whom received approval to run from the constitutional court after initial disqualifications. Dologuélé was the runner-up in both the 2015 and 2020 presidential elections, while Dondra briefly served under Touadéra.

The opposition aimed to capitalize on public 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 country despite the presence of international peacekeeping forces.

Touadéra, first elected in 2016, has faced criticism for his reliance on Russian security contractors from the Wagner Group, whose presence has been linked to human rights abuses and the exacerbation of conflict. His supporters, however, credit him with maintaining a degree of stability and attracting foreign investment.

The Central African Republic's constitutional court recently ruled that Touadéra could run for a third term, despite the constitution seemingly limiting presidents to two terms. The court argued that the constitutional changes enacted in 2023 reset the clock, a decision contested by the opposition.

The electoral process is being monitored by international observers from the African Union and the European Union. Results are expected to be announced in the coming days, though a contested outcome could lead to further instability. The United Nations maintains a peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, in the country, and its role in maintaining security during and after the election will be crucial.