The central African Republic is to hold the second round of voting for legislative elections in some constituencies, as well as a first-round where a December ballot was disrupted amid a fresh wave of unrest. The second round of voting is expected in 49 districts where there was no outright winner in a December parliamentary election. Voting will also take place in 69 districts that could not participate in December due to fighting between the government and rebel groups.

Barely a third of the potential ballots were cast in the December 27 first round – and in the presidential election held on the same day – because of voter intimidation in areas controlled by armed groups. On Friday the UN said authorities in the Central African Republic must ensure the protection of candidates, voters, and electoral materials in the country’s second round of legislative elections and by-elections on Sunday.