Chad is holding legislative and local elections amidst a boycott by opposition parties, who view the process as illegitimate. President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno claims the elections are a step towards democracy, but criticism persists regarding autocratic governance and electoral integrity. Meanwhile, the country faces internal conflicts and a humanitarian crisis, further complicating the political landscape.
Chad is conducting legislative and local elections amid widespread opposition boycott, orchestrated by President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno’s government, which characterizes these elections as vital to democratic transition. However, opposition factions have dismissed the elections as a mere facade. The electoral process unfolds against a backdrop of recurring jihadist violence, a terminated military agreement with France, and accusations regarding interference in Sudan’s ongoing conflicts.
Mahamat Idriss Deby ascended to power following the death of his father, Idriss Deby Itno, the nation’s long-time leader, in 2021. In May, Mahamat secured a five-year presidential term, a victory the opposition condemned as fraudulent. With the last legislative elections occurring in 2011, subsequent votes faced numerous delays due to various challenges such as security threats, financial complications, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
A transitional parliament consisting of 93 members was established in 2021 post the elder Deby’s demise. Opposition leaders criticize the ruling government as autocratic and repressive, with the Transformers party leader, Succes Masra, labeling participation in the current electoral process as akin to endorsing legislative discrimination. Conversely, government representatives assert that these elections will provide a supportive majority for the President to effectively implement his political agenda.
Amidst a media blackout, journalists have engaged in a strike against state-imposed restrictions, highlighting the oppressive atmosphere surrounding this electoral event. Chad, which continues to grapple with the ramifications of prolonged political turmoil under the Deby leadership, currently ranks among the lowest on the United Nations Human Development Index. Furthermore, a recent severe rainy season compounded the existing humanitarian crisis, contributing to numerous casualties and displacing millions.
The political landscape in Chad has been dominated by the Deby family for over three decades, beginning with the late Idriss Deby Itno. His son, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, took control following his father’s death and has faced considerable opposition to his rule. The government’s assertion that the current elections signify a movement towards democracy is heavily contested by various opposition parties, which contend that the electoral conditions are fraught with repression and lack genuine democratic processes.
The ongoing elections in Chad exemplify the deep divisions between the ruling government and opposition groups, with claims of a repressive regime fueling boycott actions. As the nation attempts to navigate its significant challenges, including security threats and humanitarian crises, the legitimacy of these elections remains highly debatable. The enduring influence of the Deby dynasty casts a long shadow over Chad’s political evolution, as many citizens and political factions continue to seek genuine democratic governance.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
