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President bids for ‘life term’

The Russian-backed president of the Central African Republic is to hold a referendum on constitutional reform that could extend his tenure to a third term in a country widely regarded as the Wagner group’s main seat of influence on the continent. President FaustinArchange Touadera’s declaration has been condemned by opposition parties as part of a Russian plan to consolidate Wagner’s control of the diamond-rich nation and expand its influence in neighbouring countries. The referendum is planned for July 30. Touadera, 66, who relies on Wagner fighters to stay in power, is accused of wanting to in effect stay president for life.

World

en-nz

2023-06-08T07:00:00.0000000Z

2023-06-08T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://fairfaxmedia.pressreader.com/article/281831468129578

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