Central African Republic elections set for Dec 28 amid Russia ties

Upcoming Elections in the Central African Republic

The Central African Republic is scheduled to conduct presidential and legislative elections on Thu, Dec 28, 2023. The election period is marked by ongoing security concerns related to armed groups, leading to increased reliance on Russian support for security measures.

President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, in office since 2016, seeks a third term following a constitutional referendum in 2023 that abolished term limits. His candidacy has incited protests. Tensions have also emerged with Russia over the potential replacement of the Wagner private military group with the Russian military unit, Africa Corps.

The Central African Republic, with a population of approximately 5.5 million, continues to experience conflict between government forces and armed groups. A peace agreement was signed in 2019, although several armed factions later withdrew. Recent agreements have reportedly improved stability.

The UN peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA, has been active since 2014, deploying around 14,000 military personnel and 3,000 police officers to ensure election security. The UN Security Council extended the mission's mandate, albeit with planned reductions for budgetary reasons.

Russia's Wagner group initially provided military support against rebel factions. However, disputes regarding military presence and financial terms have strained relations. Russia has proposed a shift from Wagner to Africa Corps, with discussions ongoing about compensation terms.

Rwanda has maintained a significant military presence in the Central African Republic. In addition to contributing to the UN mission, Rwanda deployed special forces following a 2021 rebel attack. This military cooperation includes agreements for Rwandan access to agricultural and mining resources.

Human Rights Watch has raised concerns over potential electoral irregularities, including incomplete voter lists and inadequately trained polling staff. Administrative barriers have reportedly hindered opposition candidates, although recent rulings have allowed some prominent figures to participate.

The main opposition coalition has declared an election boycott, citing an uneven political landscape, which may influence the electoral outcome favorably for the incumbent president and the ruling party.

Based on reporting by Africanews.