Touadera seeks third term in car vote

President Faustin-Archange Touadera sought a third term in national elections held amid heightened security, with polling concluding in the capital around early evening and vote counting under way. The 68-year-old leader, who removed presidential term limits in 2023, is widely expected to win; analysts point to his control of state institutions and superior resources as key advantages. Six candidates contested the race, including two former prime ministers, while the main opposition party boycotted the vote as unfair. One opposition candidate who ran argued participation was necessary to offer voters an alternative to continued incumbency.

Turnout varied, especially in remote areas affected by insecurity, displacement and poor infrastructure. Unlike the violence-plagued 2020 polls, officials reported no major disruptions this time, though rebel groups remain active and there have been cross-border incursions from Sudan. Security on election day included national forces and allied foreign personnel; authorities said measures were in place to ensure transparency. Peace agreements since 2020 have improved conditions in parts of the country, but multiple armed factions continue to operate.

Touadera’s government brought in Russian-linked Wagner mercenaries in 2018 and later secured Rwandan troops to counter rebels, moves that analysts say have strengthened his hold on power while deepening ties with Russia. Moscow’s security assistance is linked to economic access to the country’s resources, including gold and diamonds, raising concerns about sovereignty and long-term geopolitical alignment. International observers and rights groups have flagged restrictions on political freedoms and a narrowing space for opposition activity, and full-scale monitoring missions have been limited.

Beyond the presidential ballot, voters also elected legislative, regional and municipal representatives. Electoral rules provide for a presidential runoff if no candidate secures over 50% of the vote; in that case a second round is scheduled for mid-February, with legislative runoffs in April. Official results are due in coming days, and a confirmed Touadera victory would solidify his leadership and likely reinforce Russian influence amid ongoing questions about democratic norms and the country’s stability.