UPDATE: Human Rights Watch (HRW) has just issued a stark warning that the upcoming general elections in the Central African Republic (CAR), scheduled for December 28, 2025, are at severe risk of losing integrity. The organization cites increasing irregularities, political interference, and escalating security pressures, raising urgent concerns over the credibility and inclusiveness of the electoral process.
The warning comes amid a backdrop of political turmoil, particularly after a controversial 2023 constitutional referendum abolished presidential term limits, allowing incumbent president Faustin-Archange Touadéa to run for a third consecutive term. This significant change has faced widespread backlash from opposition parties, many of which were barred from protesting the referendum. In a recent turn of events, two previously excluded opposition figures, former prime ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra, have been reinstated as candidates. However, HRW views this as insufficient amidst ongoing administrative tactics that disadvantage other challengers.
HRW has flagged serious concerns regarding the logistical readiness and impartiality of the electoral process. Reports indicate that the National Elections Authority (ANE) is struggling with incomplete voter lists, inadequately trained polling staff, and significant supply-chain issues, particularly in rural regions. The last fully functioning local elections were held over a decade ago, and previous national polls have been marred by intense security pressures and heavy international involvement, raising fears of skewed voter turnout favoring urban areas or those aligned with the government.
The United Nations has repeatedly warned that the political dialogue in CAR is fragile. Armed groups continue to control vast territories outside the capital, Bangui, severely undermining state institutions and their ability to operate effectively beyond urban centers. These ongoing conflicts not only threaten civilian safety but also displace individuals, further limiting their ability to vote securely.
Adding to these challenges, civil society actors, journalists, and opposition members reportedly face harassment and intimidation, creating a hostile environment as the nation approaches the polls. Compounding these issues is the drawdown of components of the MINUSCA (the U.N. peacekeeping mission in CAR), which has historically played a crucial role in ensuring election logistics and oversight. This reduction raises alarming questions about the credibility and safety of the forthcoming elections.
HRW is calling upon international partners and observers to closely monitor the situation and reconsider the drawdown of peacekeeping forces to safeguard the electoral process. With tensions running high and the election date fast approaching, the integrity of the upcoming polls in the Central African Republic remains in jeopardy.
As the situation develops, citizens and observers alike are urged to remain vigilant and informed. The implications of these elections extend beyond CAR’s borders, impacting regional stability and international relations as the world watches closely.
