As the Central African Republic moves closer to a wide-ranging general election on December 28, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appealed for calm and restraint, urging citizens and political actors to commit to a peaceful and orderly process.
The country is set to hold presidential, legislative, regional and municipal elections, with more than two million registered voters expected to cast their ballots.
The vote comes amid heightened political debate following constitutional amendments earlier this year that removed presidential term limits, opening the way for President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who has been in office since 2016, to seek another term.
The changes sparked protests in several areas, underscoring tensions that have continued to build as election day approaches.
In a statement issued ahead of the polls, Guterres encouraged Central Africans to take part in the elections peacefully and called on institutions and political stakeholders to uphold credibility and inclusivity throughout the process.
“The Secretary-General urges all stakeholders to refrain from actions that could incite violence or undermine the credibility of the process and underlines the importance of safeguarding the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms throughout the electoral period,” Guterres said.
He emphasised that protecting these principles is essential to ensuring public confidence and preventing instability during the electoral period.
Guterres also drew attention to the municipal elections, describing them as especially significant given that they will be held for the first time since 1988. He said the local polls are central to strengthening governance at the community level and supporting long-term peace efforts.
“Municipal elections are a key provision of the 2019 Political Agreement for Peace and Reconciliation in the Central African Republic. Their conduct represents a historic milestone in the peace process and a critical step towards consolidating the decentralisation of State authority,” he said.
The UN chief further noted the role played by United Nations bodies in supporting preparations for the elections, citing assistance from MINUSCA and the United Nations Development Programme in helping national and local authorities organise and carry out the vote.
He reaffirmed the UN’s continued support for the country’s efforts to promote democratic governance, stability and peace.
The elections are unfolding in a challenging environment marked by persistent insecurity in parts of the country. Armed groups remain active in several regions, raising concerns about possible disruptions and violence.
Although foreign security forces, including those from Russia, have contributed to relative stability, questions remain over accountability and transparency in the broader electoral environment.
At the same time, opposition figures and civil society organisations have voiced concerns over fairness, particularly regarding equal access to campaigning and the overall conduct of the process.
