In a rare and defiant display of civic unrest, nearly 5,000 citizens flooded the streets of Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic (CAR), on April 4, 2025. Their message was unequivocal: President Faustin-Archange Touadéra must abandon any aspirations for a third term in office. The protest, one of the largest in recent years, was not only a denunciation of potential constitutional overreach but also a vehement rejection of the growing influence of Russian mercenaries from the Wagner Group in the nation’s affairs.
Marching from Jackson Bridge to the Boganda Monument, demonstrators chanted the national anthem and brandished banners emblazoned with slogans like “Stop the Third Term.” The rally, orchestrated by the Republican Bloc for the Defense of the Constitution (BRDC), was a testament to the mounting frustration among Central Africans, particularly the youth, over what they perceive as a drift toward authoritarianism and external manipulation.
Opposition leader Martin Ziguélé, head of the Movement for the Liberation of the Central African People (MLPC), lauded the youth-led movement, stating, “As he nears the end of his second term, he manipulates public funds to claim that the people want a third term. But today is a victory for the Central African people” .
The roots of this unrest trace back to a controversial constitutional referendum held on July 30, 2023. The referendum, which passed with over 95% approval according to official figures, abolished presidential term limits and extended the presidential term from five to seven years. Critics argue that the process was marred by irregularities, including the absence of “no” ballots at several polling stations and a reported turnout of less than 15%, despite official claims of 60% participation .
Compounding domestic concerns is the involvement of the Wagner Group, a Russian paramilitary organization. Initially invited to assist in quelling rebel insurgencies, Wagner’s role has expanded significantly, with reports indicating their involvement in securing the 2023 referendum and providing personal security for President Touadéra. Protesters accuse Wagner forces of committing human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings and sexual violence, with impunity .
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Justin Winè, a prominent opposition figure, voiced the sentiments of many demonstrators: “We’re here to say no to a third term for Faustin Archange Touadéra. But more than that, we want to protect our sovereignty, which Touadéra and the Wagner have trampled upon” . The BRDC has pledged to maintain pressure on the government, with plans for continued demonstrations in the coming weeks. As the nation grapples with political uncertainty and external influences, the resolve of its citizens to uphold democratic principles remains steadfast.
