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On December 28, voters in the Central African Republic (CAR) participated in an unprecedented electoral event, which included four different ballots in a single voting exercise. This landmark election was crucial as it marked the first municipal elections in CAR since 1988, fulfilling key provisions outlined in the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation.
According to preliminary reports from MINUSCA (the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic), over 99% of polling stations opened as scheduled on election day. This significant turnout reflects a remarkable achievement in a country characterized by its vast, sparsely populated landscape, dense forests, rivers, and often impassable roads. Many communities, especially outside the capital, Bangui, are accessible only by air or through lengthy journeys.
To support the successful execution of the elections, MINUSCA collaborated closely with national authorities and various UN agencies. The logistical challenges posed by the difficult terrain and security issues were met with extensive planning. Over the course of the operation, MINUSCA executed 84 flights and eight road convoys to deliver more than 230 tonnes of election materials. These materials included essential voting supplies such as ballot papers, indelible ink, voter cards, voting booths, and ballot boxes. Impressively, electoral materials reached 6,679 of the 6,700 polling stations across 20 prefectures, enabling a smooth electoral process.
Furthermore, extensive training was provided to around 34,500 individuals, including electoral agents, supervisors, and polling station personnel, with the support of the UN. Security measures were also heightened to ensure the safety of the polling process. This included the deployment of additional national troops and police, logistical support from MINUSCA, and intensified patrols by UN peacekeepers. To assist armed forces and internal security personnel in reaching remote areas, MINUSCA supplied vehicles and motorcycles.
Despite these efforts, not all voting proceeded without incident. Ms. Valentine Rugwabiza, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for CAR, condemned an attack that took place in Bambouti, located in the Haut-Mbomou prefecture close to the South Sudan border. This attack, executed by the Azandé Ani Kpi Gbe armed group along with armed elements from South Sudan, led to the hostage-taking of local officials, including the sub-prefect, and prevented voting in that locality. In response, MINUSCA has been actively working to facilitate the release of those captured.
As the election results are eagerly anticipated, the National Elections Authority (NEA) is scheduled to announce preliminary presidential election outcomes on January 5, 2026. The successful execution of these elections, amid challenging circumstances, reflects a significant step for CAR in its ongoing journey toward political stability and democratic governance.
