CAR Votes Amid Controversy: President Seeks Third Term

Voting began across the Central African Republic (CAR) on Sunday. The election is drawing international attention as President Archange Touadéra runs for a third term. His candidacy is controversial. The country's constitutional court approved it, but opposition groups call it unconstitutional. They argue the national charter limits presidents to two terms. Touadéra first won the presidency in 2016. He was re-elected in 2020. That election was also disputed by opponents. Security is a major concern for this vote. Large parts of the country are controlled by armed rebel groups. The government and its allies have promised to protect polling stations. The United Nations maintains a large peacekeeping force in the country. It has helped to deliver election materials to some remote areas. Preliminary results are expected within two weeks.