Chad’s Ruling Party Dominates Parliamentary Elections Amid Opposition Boycott

Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement party won the majority in recent parliamentary elections, securing 124 out of 188 seats amidst a boycott from major opposition parties. The voter turnout was reported at 51.5%. President Mahamat Idriss Déby emphasizes the elections as crucial for decentralization, yet they raise questions about democracy given the opposition’s concerns about credibility and legitimacy.

In a recent parliamentary election in Chad, the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement party emerged victorious, securing 124 out of 188 seats. This election, which was the first in over a decade, experienced a significant boycott from numerous opposition parties, including the prominent Transformers party. The voter turnout recorded was 51.5%, as announced by Ahmed Bartchiret, the head of the electoral commission. President Mahamat Idriss Déby, who ascended power in 2021 following the death of his father, former president Idriss Déby Itno, stressed that this election would facilitate a long-awaited era of decentralization in governance.

The recent parliamentary elections are critical for Chad as they represent a step in the country’s transition towards democracy, initiated after President Mahamat Idriss Déby took over following a military coup. His leadership has been marked by promises of decentralization and the establishment of a more democratic governance structure. However, the legitimacy of these elections has been called into question due to the boycott by over ten opposition parties, which has led to concerns regarding the credibility of the electoral process.

In conclusion, the ruling party’s significant victory in Chad’s parliamentary election raises questions about the future of political diversity and genuine democratic practices within the nation. The opposition’s boycott may undermine the legitimacy of the electoral results and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Chad, particularly in addressing security threats while striving for a democratic transition. These developments warrant critical observation as Chad navigates its complex political landscape.

Original Source: www.euronews.com