Ofure Akhigbe
Thousands of flag-waving supporters of the ruling United Hearts Movement (MCU) filled the streets of Bangui on Thursday as Central African Republic President Faustin-Archange Touadéra formally declared his intention to seek a third term in office.
Touadéra was the first to submit his candidacy to the National Elections Authority, positioning himself ahead of other contenders for the presidential and legislative polls set for December 28.
“Today it is done, and I truly want to thank the Central African people for their support, for everything they have done to encourage me in this commitment,” Touadéra told the jubilant crowd. “On December 28, I hope all this commitment, all this support, can be reflected in the ballot box. But I am confident.”
The president noted that his party had already completed the necessary paperwork and secured the first spot on the official list of candidates.
For many residents of Bangui, the day carried symbolic weight. “My joy is immense,” said Théodora Zimongo, a supporter who joined the procession. “We, the Central African people, today came out from all corners of the capital—Bimbo and Begoua. For the first time, we stood behind our president to accompany him as he went to submit his candidacy.”
Touadéra’s announcement has not come without controversy. Opposition parties, which recently formed a united front, have strongly criticised his decision to seek a third mandate. They argue that a fair and transparent electoral process is only possible through dialogue, warning that extending his stay in power could further polarise the nation.
The December vote is set to be one of the most consequential in the Central African Republic’s recent history. While Touadéra continues to command loyalty among sections of the electorate, particularly in Bangui, critics say a third term risks undermining fragile democratic institutions in a country still grappling with insecurity and economic hardship.
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