President Faustin Archange Touadera was sworn in on 30 January 2026 for a third term, extending his rule after constitutional reforms removed term limits and lengthened presidential mandates.
The ceremony held at a stadium in the capital Bangui drew about 20,000 spectators and several African leaders, highlighting the regional importance of the event. Among those present were Gabon President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, Burundi President Evariste Ndayishimiye who also chairs the African Union, and Comoros President Azali Assoumani.
Touadera, 68, secured reelection in December 2025 with 77.9% of the vote, according to final results validated by the Constitutional Council. The vote was contested by opposition figures including his main rival Anicet George Dologuele, who alleged widespread irregularities.
The Central African Republic continues to face insecurity despite a 2019 peace agreement, with armed groups still active in parts of the country.
According to the United Nations, more than two million people require humanitarian assistance, while nearly one million remain displaced internally or in neighbouring countries. Touadera has acknowledged the fragile situation and pledged to sustain recent gains.
Peace is returning thanks to dialogue, he said in earlier remarks, promising to continue engagement with armed groups.
Touadera new mandate follows a 2023 constitutional referendum that abolished presidential term limits and extended terms from five to seven years. The changes allowed him to run again after first taking office in 2016 and winning reelection in 2020 with 53.16% of the vote.
Critics say the reforms weakened democratic safeguards, while supporters argue they ensure continuity in a country long affected by instability.
Analysts say Touadera ability to maintain security gains will be critical, with efforts supported by partnerships with Rwanda, the United Arab Emirates and Russia.
Government control now extends over about 90% of the country, compared with about 20% in 2021, according to analysts, though observers warn the situation remains fragile.
The Central African Republic is surrounded by conflict affected neighbours including Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, adding pressure to its security landscape.
Touadera in his inauguration speech emphasised priorities of peace, reconciliation and national unity, as questions remain over whether his third term will deliver lasting stability.
