Central African Republic's Election News Round-up -- January 4, 2015

Reuters: Candidates call for halt in Central African Republic vote count

Two thirds of the 30 candidates standing for president of Central African Republic on Monday demanded the authorities halt the vote count because of what they said were irregularities in the ballot.

Many voters hope the Dec. 30 poll will restore peace after three years of conflict between Muslim rebels and Christian militias in which thousands of people have died and around 1 million have fled their homes.

The protest by the candidates could mean the final result is contested, but it may be seen by some voters as a last cry by people who see their chances of winning the election slipping away.

Central African Republic's Election News Round-up -- January 4, 2015

C. African Republic candidates call for halt to vote count -- AP
Central African Republic candidates call for halt to 'tainted' election -- The Guardian/AFP
C. African presidential candidates urge end to "masquerade" -- AFP
Ex-prime minister Touadera leads presidential race in Central African Republic -- DW
Central African Republic ex-PM Touadera leads vote count -- BBC
2 ex-premiers running neck-to-neck in Central African vote -- AP