Thousands of people packed the Barthelemy Boganda Sports Complex on Monday to witness President Faustin-Archange Touadera of the Central African Republic take the oath for a third term after winning the December election.

Touadera arrived at the ceremony and waved at the cheering crowd before receiving the presidential seal and taking his place alongside other dignitaries.

"And I, before the nation, scrupulously uphold the constitution, guarantee the independence and continued existence of the Republic, safeguard the integrity of the territory, preserve peace, consolidate national unity, and ensure the well-being of the Central African people," said Touadera during his inaugural address.

Soldiers were seen marching and performers dancing to entertain guests as the colourful ceremony concluded.

68-year-old Touadera was first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020 and in December 2025 with 77.9% of the vote, according to the final results validated by the Constitutional Council.

Opposition leaders reportedly rejected the results announced by the National Authority of Elections (ANE), alleging 'widespread irregularities' and questioning the credibility of the outcome.