Faustin-Archange Touadéra has tightened his grip on the Central African Republic (CAR), securing a controversial third term with a crushing 76.15% of the vote. The country’s top court has validated the landslide victory, cementing a new political era following the 2023 constitutional referendum that cleared his path to run again.

The victory comes against a backdrop of deep geopolitical maneuvering in the heart of Africa. Touadéra, a former mathematics professor, has pivoted the resource-rich but conflict-ridden nation sharply away from its traditional French allies, embracing a deepening security and economic partnership with Russia.

A Mandate or a Monolith?

The National Elections Authority (ANE) figures show Touadéra commanding an absolute majority, avoiding a runoff. His supporters hail this as a vote for stability and security, crediting his administration—backed by Russian paramilitary forces—with reclaiming territory from rebel groups.

However, the opposition paints a different picture, citing the constitutional maneuvering that removed term limits as a prelude to a "presidency for life." The atmosphere in Bangui remains tense but quiet, heavily patrolled by security forces.

• The Russian Connection: Touadéra’s reliance on Wagner Group mercenaries (now reorganized under the Africa Corps banner) has been the linchpin of his survival. In exchange, Russian interests have reportedly secured access to CAR’s gold and diamond mines.
• Regional Implications: For East Africa and Kenya, CAR’s trajectory is a bellwether for the growing "sovereignty" movement across the Sahel and Central Africa, where leaders are trading Western aid for Eastern security guarantees.

The Road Ahead

With the legal hurdles cleared, Touadéra faces the monumental task of delivering peace to a population that has known little but war for a decade. The economy remains fragile, and despite the "landslide" win, large swathes of the countryside remain under the shadow of armed groups.

As the President prepares for inauguration, the message to the continent is clear: the rules of engagement in African politics are being rewritten, and Bangui is at the forefront of this shift.