President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has been declared the winner of Central African Republic’s recent presidential election, securing a third term after obtaining an outright majority, according to provisional results released by electoral authorities.
The 68-year-old former mathematics lecturer was widely tipped to retain power following a boycott of the poll by the main opposition coalition, which raised concerns over the credibility and fairness of the electoral process.
Preliminary figures show Touadéra garnered 76 per cent of the vote in the December 28 election. His nearest rivals, former prime ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra, trailed with 15 per cent and 3 per cent respectively.
Both challengers have rejected the outcome, alleging widespread irregularities and electoral fraud. Dologuélé accused authorities of carrying out what he described as a “deliberate and systematic manipulation” of the results. The government has dismissed the claims.
More than 2.4 million voters were registered for the general election, which observers said was largely peaceful despite logistical setbacks, including late delivery of voting materials and issues with the voter register.
Touadéra’s victory comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding constitutional changes enacted in 2023 that scrapped presidential term limits, allowing him to seek re-election. Critics say the move undermined democratic principles, while supporters argue it brought political continuity.
During his campaign, Touadéra highlighted improvements in national security following years of conflict. After rebels overthrew the government in 2013, the country descended into prolonged instability, prompting authorities to seek military support from Russian mercenaries and Rwandan troops.
The Central African Republic remains one of the world’s poorest and most fragile states, despite vast natural resources including gold, diamonds and uranium. According to the United Nations, nearly half of the population depends on humanitarian assistance.
A peace agreement signed in 2019 between the government and 14 armed groups eased hostilities, although several factions later withdrew, leaving parts of the country volatile.
Political analysts say Touadéra’s continued leadership is likely to strengthen Russia’s influence in the country. The CAR was among the first African nations to host Wagner mercenaries, who provided security support to the government in exchange for access to mineral resources.
The Constitutional Court is expected to review any petitions challenging the election and announce the final results by January 20.
