Chad’s Elections: A Contested Transition from Military Rule to Democracy

Chad held crucial elections on Sunday after three years of military rule, boycotted by opposition parties claiming fraud. The situation allowed pro-government candidates to dominate. Reports of ballot tampering emerged, and the credibility of the electoral process faced harsh scrutiny amid ongoing violence and political unrest.

On Sunday, Chad held legislative, provincial, and local elections, marking the end of a three-year military rule. These elections occur amidst accusations from opposition candidates who claim the previous year’s presidential election was fraudulent. The opposition has boycotted the elections, leaving the field significantly open for candidates aligned with Marshal Mahamat Idriss Itno, who has been in power since 2021. Opposition leader Succes Masra stated that it was better for voters to stay home, arguing that the election was built upon deceit and voting manipulation.

The Democratic Party of the Chadian People (PDPT) has reported incidents leading to the disappearance of over a thousand ballots, urging vigilance against electoral fraud by the ruling party. Polling stations catered to approximately eight million registered voters, with surveillance from foreign observers. Earlier voting commenced for soldiers and police officers, ensuring their participation.

Despite the elections’ characterization as a pivotal step towards democratic transition, Chad faces considerable challenges, including ongoing jihadist violence by Boko Haram and deteriorating relations with France. Itno’s regime, which followed the death of his father, Idriss Deby Itno, has been viewed increasingly as autocratic, with prior alerts issued regarding violent repression of opposition demonstrations, particularly those that occurred in late 2022.

Chad has experienced a significant political transition following the death of longtime leader Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021. His son, Marshal Mahamat Idriss Itno, took power through a military coup. The country has not had legislative elections since 2011, with multiple delays attributed to various crises, including security threats and the COVID-19 pandemic. The current elections are introduced by the government as a way to facilitate a transition to a more democratic governance structure. However, opposition parties have criticized the process as illegitimate and lack transparency. The situation is further complicated by escalating conflicts both within Chad and in neighboring countries, intensifying concerns regarding governance and stability.

The elections in Chad represent a crucial moment following three years of military governance, yet they are characterized by widespread opposition boycotts and allegations of electoral fraud. The claims of ballot manipulations by opposition parties suggest a deeper crisis of legitimacy for the Itno government. The political climate remains tense, with threats from extremist groups and criticisms of government repression further complicating Chad’s journey towards democratic governance. Without substantial reforms and genuine inclusivity in the political process, the future of governance in Chad remains precarious.

Original Source: www.france24.com