From our correspondent in Bangui, Charlotte Cosset

Many uncertainties surrounded this rally. Ultimately, secured by MINUSCA, the event took place in a relaxed atmosphere. Supporters came in large numbers to the Eucatex stadium, like Yannick. "It is an opposition platform that has come together and we are part of this opposition. The opposition will knock out in the first round. Then we expect measures for youth, jobs for young girls, education…"

Several opposition leaders spoke and addressed themes of youth, education, and election security. For Nicolas Tiangaye, spokesman for the platform, this is about animating Central African political life as elections approach. "It is about raising awareness among the Central African population about the stakes of the electoral process on one hand, and on the other hand about the record of President Touadéra. So the objective of this rally is to draw the attention of the Central African people to the situation in our country, and we believe that President Touadéra has failed and that the people must freely choose the leaders who must tomorrow take their destiny into their own hands."

While most opposition parties were represented, François Bozizé, now heading COD-2020, appears to want to establish himself as the leader of the opposition.

President Touadéra is expected this Wednesday in Bossangoa, Bozizé's region of origin, to celebrate World Food Day. A heavily attended celebration in Central African Republic that was held last year in Bambari after having to be cancelled in 2018 due to insecurity.