Critics have denounced the recent referendum in the Central African Republic (CAR), which sought to allow the president to seek re-election without term limits, as a sham.
According to provisional results, 95% of voters supported amendments to the constitution, but detractors argue that the voter turnout was as low as 10%.
CAR remains entrenched in a civil war that has displaced a significant portion of its population from their homes.
President Faustin-Archange Touadéra is backed by the Russian private military group Wagner, whose presence has raised concerns.
Additional Wagner fighters were deployed ahead of the referendum to ensure security.
Wagner forces have faced allegations of committing war crimes while supporting President Touadéra’s efforts against rebel factions that still control sizable portions of the nation.
Reports indicate their involvement in the mineral and timber industries.
The proposed new legislation aims to eliminate the existing two-term limit and extend the presidential term from five to seven years.
Furthermore, the law would prohibit politicians with dual citizenship from running for the presidency unless they renounce their second citizenship.
Campaign group Human Rights Watch says this stirs up memories of anti-Balaka militias who targeted Muslims for their perceived association with Séléka rebels in the 2013 conflict, which saw hundreds killed in a civil conflict that continues to this day.
Opposition parties and some civil society groups boycotted the referendum vote on 30 July, calling it a “constitutional coup” designed to keep President Touadéra in power for life.
They also say the election process lacked transparency and there was not enough consultation beforehand.
Under the changes, a new post of vice-president would be created, who would be appointed by the president. The Senate would be scrapped and parliament would be transformed into a single chamber.
The president and members of his United Hearts Party say they are following the “will of the people”.