Polls have opened in the Central African Republic for a referendum on a proposed new constitution that would enable President Faustin-Archange Touadéra to extend his rule beyond the existing two-term limit.
The referendum, held on Sunday, has sparked controversy, with opposition parties calling for a boycott of the vote and concerns raised over the involvement of Wagner troops in overseeing the process.
President Touadéra, who was first elected in 2016, seeks to extend his stay in power by proposing a new constitution that would abolish the current two-term limit. The proposed changes have drawn criticism and opposition, leading to calls for a boycott from some political groups.
Despite the opposition’s boycott call, the referendum has proceeded, and citizens are casting their votes to decide on the constitutional amendments. The outcome of the referendum will have significant implications for the country’s political landscape and governance structure.
Adding to the contentiousness of the referendum, the involvement of Wagner troops in overseeing the voting process has raised concerns. Wagner Group, a Russian private military company, has been operating in the Central African Republic to provide security assistance. However, its presence and role in the country have been met with scrutiny and suspicion.
The referendum takes place amid an already challenging security situation in the Central African Republic, with ongoing armed conflicts and political tensions. The proposed changes to the constitution have deepened divisions in the country’s political landscape, raising concerns about potential ramifications for stability and democracy.
As citizens head to the polls, the international community will closely monitor the referendum’s conduct and the overall political situation in the Central African Republic. The referendum’s outcome will likely shape the country’s political future and its relations with regional and international partners.
The controversy surrounding the referendum highlights the significance of political developments in the Central African Republic, with potential implications for the country’s governance, stability, and regional dynamics.
The involvement of opposition parties and the role of Wagner troops add complexity to an already delicate political situation, requiring careful attention and engagement from all stakeholders involved.