CAR’s president will push to abolish term limits

Significance

The group aims to block efforts by allies of President Faustin-Archange Touadera, who was elected to a second term only 18 months ago, to change the constitution so that he can stand for a third term in office.

Impacts

• The postponement of local elections will deprive the opposition of a chance to establish political footholds.
• Heated rhetoric criticising democratic opposition figures may undermine national reconciliation.
• Bolstered by strong Russian support, Touadera is unlikely to feel pressured by criticism from Western nations or the UN.