ABSTRACT
Central African Republic began 2016 on a surprisingly positive note, holding peaceful presidential and legislative elections in January and February. Despite isolated security incidents, logistical challenges and some allegations of irregularities, the vote proceeded in a calm, orderly manner. Following the nearly three-year political transition and suspension of electoral activity under President Catherine Samba-Panza, the elections were widely perceived as a major step towards stability. Faustin-Archange Touadéra, who was elected to replace Samba-Panza with more than 60% of the vote, began significant efforts to create a stable government, aiming to reconcile the parties to the conflict in the country and to address prevailing security issues. In mid-April, Touadéra appointed both political allies and former rivals to his first cabinet – although he left out supporters of Christian and Muslim militias.
