The constitutional referendum in the Central African Republic, which took place on July 30, has attracted a lot of attention and the results are currently being compiled at the National Elections Authority. Once the results have been confirmed by the Constitutional Court, President Touadera is expected to promulgate the new text by the end of the month.
This constitutional referendum aims to strengthen the powers of President Touadéra by creating in particular the post of vice-president. Choosing the right candidate for this position is crucial, as it will be someone who will have to share the president’s vision and have a good knowledge of the functioning of the state and its balances of power.
According to some observers, the current president of the National Assembly, Simplice Mathieu Sarandji, is the favorite for the post of vice-president. Indeed, he has a long-standing relationship with President Touadera and has previously served as Prime Minister. However, other personalities, notably those who have served in the prime minister’s office since 2016, are not excluded from the race, especially if the president decides to opt for a younger profile.
It is also important to note that this appointment could be a way for the president to consolidate his presidential majority or to signal a political openness, in particular by choosing a personality from the Muslim community, following concerns aroused by certain provisions on nationality in the constitutional project.
In short, the choice of vice-president in the Central African Republic is a crucial decision for President Touadéra. He will have to find the person who shares his vision, has solid experience of the state and its political intricacies, and who will be able to assume responsibilities with integrity and transparency. The country is now eagerly awaiting the formal appointment of the new Vice President and the entry into force of the provisions of the new Constitution