Touadéra Announces Candidacy for Third Term in Central African Republic

Edited By: Fatimatou babdin

President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has officially confirmed his candidacy for a third term in the Central African Republic. The announcement came after his nomination by the ruling United Hearts Movement, following a 2023 constitutional referendum that removed term limits and extended presidential mandates from five to seven years. While elections are expected in December, an official date has yet to be announced.

Touadéra, who first took office in 2016 and was re-elected in 2020, has governed during a period of continued insecurity. His most recent election win faced opposition from rebel groups, particularly the Coalition of Patriots for Change, which attempted to disrupt the vote. To counter these threats, Touadéra has relied on foreign military support, notably Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group.

Despite being rich in minerals, the Central African Republic remains one of the world’s poorest nations, grappling with political instability, armed conflict, and foreign interference since gaining independence from France in 1960. The upcoming elections will be a key test for the new constitutional framework and the country’s fragile institutions.