The ruling United Hearts Movement (MCU) party in the Central African Republic (CAR) has nominated President Faustin-Archange Touadera as its flagbearer for the upcoming December 2025 general elections.

The endorsement, announced on Saturday during the party's national congress in Bangui, paves the way for Touadera to seek a third term in office.

Party delegates, supporters, and senior officials converged in the capital to rally behind Touadera’s candidacy, lauding his leadership amid the country’s ongoing efforts toward peace and reconstruction.

Local media reports indicate that delegates commended the president for fostering political stability and championing national development initiatives despite persistent security challenges in the war-weary nation.

Touadera, who first rose to power in 2016 and secured re-election in 2020, confirmed his intention to remain in the race during his acceptance speech.

He vowed to continue pursuing reforms aimed at consolidating peace, boosting economic growth, and deepening democratic governance.

His announcement comes in the wake of a controversial 2023 constitutional referendum that removed the two-term limit and extended the presidential tenure from five to seven years.

The constitutional changes, pushed by Touadera’s administration, were met with both domestic and international criticism, with opposition groups accusing the government of undermining democratic norms to entrench power.

However, the ruling party has maintained that the reforms were necessary to ensure political continuity and sustained development.

With Touadera now officially in the running, the December 2025 elections are shaping up to be a critical test for the CAR’s democratic trajectory and the strength of its political institutions.

The elections will also include legislative and local contests, offering voters an opportunity to reshape the political landscape amid lingering insecurity and humanitarian concerns.