President Kagame and Touadéra Discuss Security for December 2025 Elections

Kigali, November 19, 2025 - President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Central African Republic (CAR) President Faustin-Archange Touadéra held high-level talks focused on security for the December 28, 2025 presidential elections and on strengthening bilateral relations.

President Touadéra, on a working visit to Rwanda, announced on social media, particularly X, that the discussions included electoral security and ways to reinforce friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

He stated, “Yesterday in Kigali, I met with President Paul Kagame to discuss security for the elections scheduled for December 28 and to strengthen friendship and cooperation between our countries. Rwanda’s assistance and increased investment in the CAR strengthen our strong partnership.”

Rwanda has been deeply involved in the Central African Republic since 2014, deploying troops as part of UN peacekeeping missions (MINUSCA) and to counter rebels led by François Bozizé. In 2020, Rwandan troops were sent to ensure election security, monitoring the polls held on December 27, 2020, which resulted in Touadéra’s second-term election.

Through bilateral agreements, Rwanda has also trained Central African soldiers, with the third batch of 438 graduates completing their training in March 2025. The Rwandan Armed Forces have since been a key presence in peacekeeping, protecting the Head of State, and contributing to stability and security.

In 2023, the CAR constitution was amended via referendum, extending the presidential term from five to seven years, allowing Touadéra to seek re-election after nine years in power. He first assumed office in 2006 following a five-year tenure as Prime Minister.

For the 2025 elections, Touadéra is expected to face Anicet-Georges Dologuélé, a former Prime Minister (1999-2001) and ex-President of the Central African Development Bank (BDEAC) (2001-2010), recognized for his expertise in economics, development projects, and financial management in the region.