The Central African Republic (CAR) will hold its general elections on December 28, 2025, the country’s electoral authority announced on Thursday.
The vote will include presidential, parliamentary, regional, and municipal elections marking a crucial test for the nation’s stability as President Faustin Archange Touadera seeks a controversial third term.
President Touadera, first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020, declared his intention to run again in late July.
His candidacy comes amid gradual improvements in CAR’s security situation, though the country remains fragile after years of conflict.
Critics argue that extending his rule could undermine democratic progress, while supporters credit him with restoring stability.
Voters will cast ballots in four simultaneous elections: Presidential (first round), Parliamentary, Regional, Municipal (previously delayed due to voter roll and funding issues), An estimated 2.3 million voters are registered, including 749,000 new registrations, signalling heightened political engagement.
Since Touadera’s government, CAR has seen reduced violence backed by Russian mercenaries (Wagner Group), which pushed back rebel forces.
Even with the reduction of violence, two-thirds of the country remains under insurgent or militia control, raising concerns about election security.
Observers warn that logistical hurdles and potential unrest could disrupt voting in volatile regions.
This election will determine whether CAR continues its current trajectory or faces renewed instability.
With Touadera’s opponents questioning the fairness of the electoral process and armed groups still influential, the December vote could either consolidate peace or reignite tensions.