Thousands of demonstrators flooded the streets of the Central African Republic (CAR) on Friday, protesting President Faustin Archange Touadéra’s intention to seek a third term in office. The protests, led by opposition parties, also condemned the growing influence of Russian-backed Wagner mercenaries in the country.
Touadéra, who has been in power since 2016, secured a constitutional referendum in July 2023 that could potentially allow him to remain president indefinitely. Critics argue the referendum was pushed through with the help of Wagner’s forces, who have also acted as his personal security detail.
“We’re here to say no to a third term for Faustin Archange Touadéra. But more than that, we want to protect our sovereignty, which Touadéra and the Wagner have trampled upon,” said Justin Winè, a member of the opposition.
Winè accused the mercenaries of committing human rights abuses with impunity. “The Wagner have raped and killed without any justice. This is not normal. To put an end to their reign, Touadéra must go,” he said.
The Central African Republic has faced ongoing conflict since 2013, when a coalition of predominantly Muslim rebel groups ousted then-President François Bozizé. A 2019 peace agreement signed by 14 armed groups has since fractured, with six groups withdrawing from the deal.
The Wagner Group, which was among the first foreign entities to operate in CAR under the guise of supporting peace and combating rebel forces, has played a significant role in bolstering Touadéra’s hold on power. Some credited the group for preventing rebel forces from capturing the capital, Bangui, in 2021.
Martin Ziguélé, a spokesperson for the opposition, praised the turnout at Friday’s rally, particularly among the youth. “The young people of this country have shown today that they are ready to defend our constitution and our democracy,” he said.
