Central African Republic: Voters go to the polls in elections hoped to restore stability

Voters cast their ballots in the Central African Republic in presidential and legislative elections – which are hoped to bring an end to the clashes between Christians and Muslims.

Thirty candidates are competing in the presidential election, a major milestone in the transition to democracy, while all National Assembly seats are being contested.

Interim President Catherine Samba-Panza who has held office since May 2014 is not running for office.

Mainly Muslim insurgents from a group called the Seleka seized power in the majority Christian nation in early 2013, provoking reprisals from Christian militias.

Leading presidential candidates include former prime ministers Anicet-Georges Dologuele and Martin Ziguele, who received a boost on Tuesday when the former Christian militias – who have formed the Central African Party of Unity and Development said they would support his candidacy. Other candidates include former Foreign Minister Karim Meckassoua and Bilal Desire Nzanga-Kolingba, the son of a former president.

“All the candidates are on the same footing. The outgoing president has not supported anyone,” said Ziguele as he voted.

Polls closed at 5 pm local time (1100 EST). Provisional results will be announced in the following days and the constitutional court must give final results 15 days after polling day.

Source: Reuters