Bangui, Central African Republic – The ruling United Hearts Movement (MCU) in the Central African Republic has vehemently rejected the opposition leader Anicet-Georges Dologuélé’s declaration of victory in the presidential election held on December 28th. This rejection comes ahead of the official results scheduled to be released on January 5th.
Evariste Ngamana, spokesperson for the MCU, labeled Dologuélé’s claims as “false” and warned that they could incite “unrest.” He emphasized that “no candidate has the right to declare themselves the winner before the official announcement.”
Ngamana further stated that “early indicators do not lie,” hinting at the party’s confidence in the re-election of incumbent President Faustin-Archange Touadéra. He stressed that the Central African Republic is “gradually emerging from a history burdened by recurring political crises,” and underscored the “special responsibility” of all political actors to maintain peace.
Dologuélé, who was running for president for the third time, held a press conference where he announced his victory, alleging “serious irregularities” during the electoral process.
The political climate remains tense as the public awaits the preliminary results. There are growing concerns that the heated exchanges between the government and the opposition could further escalate political tensions in a country plagued by decades of recurring crises.
These developments unfold amidst ongoing political controversy surrounding the electoral process. President Touadéra has faced widespread criticism since enacting a new constitution in 2023 that allows him to remain in power. He was first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020 in an election marred by allegations of fraud.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds.
