Thousands of supporters rallied in Bangui on Thursday as President Faustin-Archange Touadéra became the first to submit his candidacy for the December 28 presidential and legislative elections, kicking off a tense race where the incumbent eyes a third term amid opposition cries for dialogue to ensure a fair vote.

Touadéra, who swept to victory in 2020 and 2021 amid ongoing instability, told crowds his filing marked a "commitment" backed by the people. "I thank the Central African people for their support... On December 28, I hope all this can be reflected in the ballot box," he said, drawing cheers from MCU party faithful who see his bid as continuity for a nation scarred by coups and rebel strife since 2013.

The launch unfolded peacefully, with Touadéra's team securing slot number one from the National Elections Authority.

Opposition voices, united in a popular bloc, slammed the move as premature, renewing demands for pre-vote talks to organize the polls properly. "We continue to demand dialogue," a bloc spokesperson said, warning that bypassing it risks disenfranchising voters in a country where insecurity hampers access for millions.

The elections, pitting Touadéra's MCU against the former ruling party's remnants and smaller outfits, test the fragile gains from Russian-backed offensives that reclaimed swaths of territory.

With 5.4 million registered voters and a history of disputed results, the December 28 dual vote could either solidify Touadéra's grip or ignite fresh turmoil in the diamond-rich, rebel-plagued heart of Africa.