The voter registration process for the Central African Republic’s upcoming local elections, scheduled for April 2025, officially began on Sunday in the capital, Bangui.
Observers noted a steady flow of citizens at an enrollment center in the city’s 4th arrondissement.
Among those registering was 19-year-old Dieu-beni Ouarandji, eager to exercise his civic duty for the first time.
“This is my first time registering to vote, and I’m excited to participate in the electoral process in my country,” Ouarandji said.
“I look forward to casting my vote next April for the municipal authorities of our district.”
The president of the National Election Authority, Mathias Barthélemy Boganda, encouraged all Central Africans who have not yet registered to take advantage of the opportunity.
“I urge citizens to visit the registration centers and ensure they are listed on the electoral roll,” Boganda stated, emphasizing the importance of widespread participation in strengthening the democratic process.
The voter registration operations, which began on 24 November, are set to conclude on 7 December 2024.
This critical step marks the country’s preparations for local elections, seen as pivotal in advancing governance at the municipal level.
The local elections will be the latest effort to solidify democratic practices in the Central African Republic, a nation that continues to navigate its path toward stability and development amid longstanding challenges.
