After several postponements, citizens of the Central African Republic are voting in presidential and parliamentary elections. The process has taken off to a shaky start, with reports that that some provinces in the country are yet to get ballots. Some voting cards were also allegedly printed twice and some candidates claim fake electoral cards are also being circulated. But the national elections authority remains optimistic
“Learning the lessons from the difficulties we experienced during voter registration and the referendum, substantial resources have been placed in all constituencies to meet these needs.” Julius Ngouadé-Baba, spokesman, national elections authority
As well as logistics, security is a major concern.Earlier this month, a referendum was marred with violence in Bangui’s PK5 neighborhood and in territories controlled by ex-seleka leader Noureddine Adam. The United Nations, the French Sangaris force and local police have stepped up their presence ahead of these high-stakes elections.
Peacekeepers are already guarding polling stations¡ And civilian militias are also on standby. Many residents say they feel safer than during the referendum.
“Even so, peace is starting to come back. We are not afraid, we will vote. Everyone needs to vote. ” Odile Grandet,PK5 resident
These elections were first due in February. After the many delays, Central Africans are eager to vote for their government, and there’s hope of a brighter future, after three years of sectarian violence.
