Critics and opposition parties held protests as the reform would allow president Touadéra to run again in 2025 for a third term.

[5][6] The head of the court, Danièle Darlan, alleged that she had been approached earlier that year by the chargé d'affaires of the Russian Embassy, Bangui, who asked her how they could ensure Touadéra remained in power.

[10] Additionally, the official preparations for the referendum occurred shortly before a temporary recall of some members of the Wagner Group, who had been assisting in securing several regions of the country, following their rebellion in June.

[11] Provisional results released by the government on 6 August stated that the referendum was approved by over 95% of those voting, with a turnout of around 60%.

The State Department further called on the Central African Republic's government to issue a date for local elections.