President of CAR Faustin-Archange Touadéra has announced his intention to run for a third term in the upcoming December elections, reigniting debate over term limits and democratic governance in the troubled nation.
Standing before an enthusiastic crowd of supporters at the United Hearts Movement party gathering in Bangui, the 68-year-old leader declared, “Many of you have asked for me, and my answer is yes. I am your candidate for the presidential election of December 2025.”
Touadéra’s declaration comes two years after a controversial constitutional referendum in 2023 that abolished presidential term limits and extended the presidential mandate from five to seven years. Critics say the move effectively paves the way for indefinite rule.
Since first taking office in 2016, Touadéra has leaned on foreign military support to maintain power amid ongoing conflict with rebel groups like the Coalition of Patriots for Change (CPC).
Russian mercenaries, particularly from the Wagner group, along with Rwandan troops and UN peacekeepers, have bolstered government forces.
Despite criticism, Touadéra maintains his leadership is essential for stability.
“We will continue the work of rebuilding our country. Our path is long, but our resolve is firm.”
The exact date of the December vote remains unconfirmed, and concerns linger about whether opposition parties will participate without guarantees of electoral fairness.
