By John Ikani
Central African Republic (CAR) voters are anxiously awaiting the outcome of a significant constitutional referendum, which President Faustin-Archange Touadera envisions will eliminate term limits.
During the voting process on Sunday, the opposition chose to boycott, deeming it unlawful.
President Touadera, in the final stretch of his current term, may seek a third term if the referendum garners sufficient “yes” votes.
Supporters of Mr. Touadera, with the support of the Russian Wagner group, believe that the proposed alterations will foster stability and development in the nation.
However, the opposition contends that these changes could consolidate his hold on power, leading to an indefinite presidency.
Should the new constitution be ratified, it will extend presidential terms from five to seven years.
It will also bar dual citizens from pursuing the presidency, introduce the position of a vice-president, and abolish the Senate.
What’s more, the amendments could grant the president the authority to appoint more judges to the Supreme Court, further impacting the nation’s judiciary system.
The referendum’s results are anticipated within a week, followed by a 21-day period for the constitutional court’s adoption.
What you should know
There have been 9 presidents of the Central African Republic (CAR) before President Touadera. They are:
• David Dacko (1960–1966, 1979–1981)
• Jean-Bédel Bokassa (1966–1979)
• André Kolingba (1981–1993)
• Ange-Félix Patassé (1993–2003)
• François Bozizé (2003–2013)
• Michel Djotodia (2013–2014)
• Catherine Samba-Panza (2014–2016)
• Faustin-Archange Touadéra (2016–present)
• Touadera is the 10th president of the CAR. He was first elected in 2016, and was re-elected in 2021. He is the first president of the CAR to be elected twice.
The CAR has a long history of political instability. Since independence in 1960, the country has experienced numerous coups, civil wars, and periods of anarchy.
Touadéra’s supporters point to the fact that he has been able to maintain a fragile peace in the CAR since his election in 2016.
They also point to the fact that he has made progress in rebuilding the country’s infrastructure and economy.
Touadéra’s critics argue that he has not done enough to address the root causes of the CAR’s problems, such as poverty and corruption.
They also argue that he has not been able to unite the country’s different ethnic groups.
