This Sunday, December 27, 2020, the Central Africans went to the polls to elect their new president. While some polling stations are open on time, others have been delayed due to logistical problems. But according to the National Election Authority (NSA) the 10 hours of operation will be respected in all offices even those that started with a delay. In Bimbo, for example, the offices opened well after the scheduled time.
In Bangui, the coquette, the Central African capital, a security device was deployed throughout the city and polling stations. The national security forces and the Minusca reassure the population by their presence. If the situation remains calm in the capital, it is not the case in other regions such as Bambari or Bouar, shots have disrupted the vote.
This Central African presidential election is going on under pressure. Former President François Bozizé banned from running in this election, openly declared that he supported the rebellion and called for not to vote. A rebellion that launched an offensive against outgoing President Faustin Archange Touadera who is running for his own succession. “My compatriots, I call you not to go to vote. Stay at home. Let Touadéra alone go to deposit his ballot in the ballot box. I support the CPC,” he said in an Internet audio message authenticated by his party.
A security threat hangs over this crucial election which has suffered many political disruptions caused by divisions between power and opposition. 1.8 million voters are called to the polls for this dual presidential and legislative election.
