The Central African Republic (CAR) has officially scheduled its general elections for December 28, 2025 — a day that could shape the country’s political future for years to come.
On that single day, citizens will head to the polls to vote in four different elections: presidential (first round), parliamentary, regional, and long-delayed municipal races. The stakes are high, as President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has confirmed he will seek a third term, a move that has stirred both hope and controversy.
Touadéra, first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020, has been credited by supporters with improving security after years of conflict, particularly through military gains against rebel forces. His critics, however, argue that extending his presidency could damage democratic progress.
The country’s electoral authority reports that 2.3 million people are registered to vote, including nearly 750,000 new registrations — a sign of growing political engagement.
Security has improved in some regions, largely due to government offensives supported by foreign allies, but challenges remain. Armed groups still control around two-thirds of the country, raising concerns about whether voting can take place safely in all areas. Observers warn that logistical issues and unrest could disrupt the process, especially in volatile territories.
For many, this election represents a crossroads: the chance to cement recent stability or the risk of sliding back into turmoil. With questions over the fairness of the vote and the lingering influence of armed factions, the outcome in December will be closely watched both at home and abroad.