Faustin Touadera – an outsider, takes early lead in Central African Republic presidential race

Independent candidate Faustin Touadera has taken a commanding lead in the Central African Republic’s presidential race, garnering more than 23 percent of the vote with a quarter of the ballots counted, electoral officials said.

Touadera, a former prime minister (from 2008-2013), and mathematics professor, is considered an outsider in the field of 30 candidates vying in the election seen as vital to restoring stability after years of unrest in the country.

His closest rival for the presidency is Anicet Georges Dologuele – also a former prime minister, while Desire Kolingba is currently in third place.

The results confirm early indications of Touadera’s lead in the closely watched vote. A likely second round is set for January 31.

The Central African Republic was plunged into sectarian unrest in 2013 after former president, François Bozizé was ousted by a Muslim rebel alliance.

It is hoped that the elections restore political stability to the country.