The Central African Republic (CAR) has deployed additional troops to the remote Vakaga region as part of efforts to secure nationwide elections scheduled for 28 December, with logistical support from the United Nations peacekeeping mission, MINUSCA. The reinforcements from the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) were deployed on 16 December under the Integrated Election Security Plan (PISE). MINUSCA provided air transport to move troops into Vakaga, a northeastern prefecture bordering Sudan and Chad that has long faced insecurity and limited state presence.
Authorities say the deployment is aimed at strengthening security around voter registration sites, polling stations and election officials, while also protecting candidates and other stakeholders involved in the electoral process. Similar deployments are expected in other prefectures in the coming days, also supported by UN logistics and security coordination. CAR is preparing to hold presidential, legislative and municipal elections on the same day. The municipal polls will be the first in decades, raising logistical and administrative challenges in a country with poor infrastructure and persistent security concerns.
The electoral process has drawn criticism from human rights groups and opposition parties, who question its credibility and inclusiveness. Several prominent opposition figures were barred from running until mid-November, and President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has faced criticism for consolidating power, notably through a disputed constitutional referendum in 2023 that allowed him to extend his rule. Practical concerns remain over whether all polling stations can open on time, particularly in remote and conflict-affected areas. The government and MINUSCA say the stepped-up security deployment is intended to reduce risks and help ensure voting can take place across the country.
