🇨🇫 Central African Republic Election Update — December 2025

The Central African Republic (CAR) has held a major general election as voters went to the polls on 28 December 2025 in what officials describe as a historic and peaceful process. The vote included presidential, legislative, regional, and local elections, with approximately 2.4 million registered voters expected to cast ballots across more than 6,700 polling stations nationwide. Advfn+1

Incumbent President Seeks Third Term

President Faustin-Archange Touadéra, in office since 2016, was a central figure in the election. He is seeking a third consecutive term after a controversial constitutional reform in 2023 removed presidential term limits and extended the presidential term to seven years — a move that critics said could entrench power. Africanews+1

Touadéra campaigned on promises of continued security improvements and economic stability, highlighting recent peace deals with armed groups and efforts to strengthen state authority in previously insecure areas. allAfrica.com

Opposition and Competition

Seven candidates competed in the presidential race, including notable figures such as former prime ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuélé and Henri-Marie Dondra, who campaigned on platforms focused on poverty reduction, development, and political reform. Election Guide

Some opposition leaders and coalitions criticised the political environment and alleged constraints on campaign freedoms, although domestic and international observers described polling day as calm and orderly, including in regions previously affected by insecurity. The Nation Newspaper

Peaceful Voting and Electoral Conduct

According to reports from local observers like the Réseau Arc-en-Ciel (RAC) and international missions, the election process overall proceeded without major incidents. Voting opened early in the morning and closed in the evening, with both domestic and foreign teams noting a generally peaceful environment even in rural and conflict-affected areas. The Nation Newspaper

What Happens Next?

Preliminary results were expected to be released around 5 January 2026, with a runoff election scheduled if no candidate achieved an outright majority. Given Touadéra’s strong position and broad support networks — including security arrangements involving international partners — analysts suggested he remained the favourite to secure another term. Reuters

This election marks another crucial moment in the CAR’s ongoing effort to stabilise after years of conflict and political uncertainty. Observers will be watching closely to see how the results influence governance, regional relations, and peace initiatives moving forward.