BANGUI, Central African Republic — The Central African Republic’s electoral process has entered a new phase of uncertainty after the National Elections Authority (ANE) temporarily suspended campaign activities for the country’s planned residual elections.

The elections had been scheduled for September 27, 2026, but the ANE announced on September 9 that preparations could not continue normally because of operational, financial and logistical constraints.

The electoral body described the situation as a “case of force majeure” and said a new timetable would be established at a later date. Electoral operations that have already been completed will remain valid under the temporary suspension.

The ANE is now consulting with the government, Constitutional Court, MINUSCA and other electoral partners to determine how the process can resume and establish a new date for voting.

The development comes as the country works to complete its broader electoral cycle following the December 2025 presidential and local elections. The African Union’s Peace and Security Council recently welcomed the completion of the election cycle while urging political stakeholders to maintain peaceful dialogue and strengthen democratic governance.

For political parties and candidates, the suspension means further uncertainty over campaigning and the timing of the remaining contests.

The new electoral timetable is expected to become a major political focus in Bangui as authorities seek to complete the outstanding elections.