As the Central African Republic (CAR) gears up for its general elections set for December 28, 2025, Human Rights Watch has issued a cautionary note about several factors that threaten the electoral process’s integrity and inclusiveness. The warning highlights a blend of political interference, logistical challenges, and security concerns.
In 2023, the CAR experienced a major constitutional shift that removed presidential term limits, allowing President Faustin-Archange Touadéra to pursue a third term. This move has faced significant backlash from opposition parties, which were previously barred from publicly expressing their dissent. The reinstatement of opposition figures such as former prime ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra as candidates is seen as a partial positive step, albeit amidst ongoing administrative challenges that disadvantage other contenders.
The fragility of the political landscape is further exacerbated by operational hurdles within the National Elections Authority (ANE). HRW raises concerns about incomplete voter lists, inadequately trained polling personnel, and logistical obstacles, particularly in rural regions. The absence of efficiently managed local elections for a decade, coupled with issues in national polls characterized by security challenges, could lead to uneven voter turnout. This situation might skew results toward urban or government-favored constituencies.
The overarching security concerns add another layer of complexity. The CAR’s ongoing turmoil between government forces and armed groups threatens civilian safety and restricts voters’ ability to participate freely. Reports of harassment against civil society members, journalists, and opposition supporters further illustrate the precarious state of civic freedoms.
The UN has repeatedly emphasized the need for stable political dialogue, given that armed groups maintain control over substantial territories outside Bangui, where state power is limited. The anticipated withdrawal of parts of the MINUSCA peacekeeping force compounds the uncertainty, as these forces have historically provided crucial logistical support and oversight for elections. The international community is therefore urged to remain vigilant and reassess the scale of peacekeeping engagement during this critical period.
As these issues unfold, the election’s credibility remains in question. While the restoration of some opposition leaders as candidates is noteworthy, addressing the systemic challenges and ensuring a truly inclusive electoral process will require concerted efforts from both national authorities and international partners.