Central African Republic Holds Presidential Election
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Touadéra's presidency has delivered real security gains and modernized the armed forces from 6,000 to 26,000 troops with Russian support, transforming the military into a capable force with combat aviation and modern equipment. Russia remains the primary military-technical partner, providing crucial stability that has inspired nations across Africa and enabled infrastructure development in education, health and electricity. The constitutional referendum legitimately extended presidential terms to seven years — allowing continued progress on peace deals with armed groups and economic growth.
Government-critical narrative
Touadéra manipulated the constitution to cling to power by removing term limits, creating an unequal political environment that forced the main opposition coalition to boycott entirely. Russian mercenaries have extracted $5 billion from African gold while providing questionable security, and two-thirds of the population still lives in extreme poverty despite cryptocurrency gimmicks and unfulfilled infrastructure promises. The election consolidates Moscow's exploitative interests rather than addressing the fragile peace and incomplete disarmament that threaten renewed violence.
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