Chad Conducts First Parliamentary Elections in Over a Decade Amid Controversy

Chad holds its first parliamentary elections in over a decade as part of a governmental push for democracy following the 2021 death of its long-time leader. Opposition parties, however, are boycotting the elections due to concerns over legitimacy and transparency. While the government prepares for a decisive vote, the situation is complicated by the country’s historical political challenges and recent escalated security issues.

Chad is conducting parliamentary, regional, and municipal elections, marking the first such elections in over a decade. This electoral process is part of the transitional government’s initiative to move the country toward democracy following the death of longtime leader Idriss Deby Itno in 2021 and the subsequent ascension of his son, Mahamat Idriss Deby. While the government expresses optimism about this step, a significant boycott from opposition parties underscores deep skepticism surrounding the elections’ legitimacy.

Chad’s last parliamentary elections occurred in 2011, with successive postponements attributed to financial limitations and the COVID-19 pandemic. The country’s political landscape has been dominated by the Deby family since 1991, marred by coups and authoritarian rule. Opposing parties have voiced concerns regarding the fairness of the recent elections, highlighting the ongoing political repression and the curtailing of freedoms such as journalism. In this context, the recent electoral initiative faces scrutiny from various factions within Chad.

The conduct of parliamentary elections in Chad is critical, representing a potential turning point towards democratic governance. However, the significant boycott by opposition parties and reported repression of media elements crystallizes the doubts about the electoral process’s integrity. As Chad proceeds with these elections, the actions of its administration and the responses of its citizens will determine the future trajectory of its political landscape.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com