Constitutional referendum to remove presidential term limits divides Central African Republic

By JEAN FERNAND KOENA and ZANE IRWIN
Associated Press

BANGUI, Central African Republic (AP) — The Central African Republic went to the polls Sunday in a highly anticipated vote on a new constitution, which could remove presidential term limits. The new constitution would replace the one adopted at President Faustin Archange Touadera’s inauguration in 2016, during the country’s civil war and when 80% of the it was not under state control. Analysts say if the new constitution is passed, it could entrench the ruling party’s power indefinitely. The mineral-rich but impoverished nation has faced fighting since 2013, when predominantly Muslim Seleka rebels seized power and forced then-President Francois Bozize from office. Mostly Christian militias later fought back, also targeting civilians in the streets.