In a dramatic display of political momentum, thousands of supporters of the ruling MCU party flooded the streets of Bangui on Thursday to accompany President Faustin-Archange Touadéra as he officially submitted his candidacy to the National Elections Authority for the upcoming presidential and legislative elections in the Central African Republic, scheduled for December 28. The event marked the formal launch of Touadéra’s bid to secure another mandate in office, underscoring his influence on the political landscape despite mounting opposition criticism over his decision to run for a third term.
Standing before an electrified crowd, Touadéra expressed gratitude to the citizens who turned out in overwhelming numbers to show solidarity with his candidacy. “Today it is done, and I truly want to thank the Central African people for their support, for everything they have done to encourage me in this commitment,” he declared, visibly energized by the show of loyalty. He went on to emphasize that the true measure of this support would be revealed at the ballot box, stating, “On December 28, I hope all this commitment, all this support, can be reflected in the ballot box. But I am confident. And I thank the political bureau—they have already submitted the file. According to the national executive secretariat, we have number 1.”
The announcement carried deep symbolic weight, not only because Touadéra was the first candidate to formally register his name, but also because of the massive mobilization that accompanied him. For many in Bangui, the event was seen as both a celebration of continuity and a declaration of loyalty to a leader they believe has delivered stability in turbulent times. One such supporter, Théodora Zimongo, expressed her joy at witnessing such unity: “My joy is immense. We, the Central African people, today came out from all corners of the capital—Bimbo and Begoua. For the first time, we stood behind our president to accompany him as he went to submit his candidacy to the National Elections Authority.”
However, Touadéra’s move is not without controversy. The opposition, which has rallied under a united popular bloc, continues to strongly oppose his bid for a third term, arguing that it undermines democratic principles and threatens to destabilize the electoral process. Opposition leaders are calling for dialogue before the polls, insisting that proper consultation and reforms are necessary to ensure that the elections are free, fair, and credible. Their stance reflects the broader tension in the Central African Republic, where political stability remains fragile, and where debates over governance, democracy, and legitimacy continue to shape the national discourse.
As the December 28 elections draw closer, Touadéra’s candidacy sets the stage for what is expected to be one of the most contentious contests in the nation’s history. His supporters believe his leadership has brought progress and stability, while his opponents argue that extending his presidency could entrench divisions and weaken democratic institutions. For now, the streets of Bangui have delivered a powerful message of support, but the true verdict will come when citizens across the country cast their votes at the ballot box.
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