Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement party won a decisive majority in the recent parliamentary elections, acquiring 124 out of 188 seats, with a voter turnout of 51.5%. The elections were boycotted by the main opposition parties, which labeled the election a ‘charade’. This marks the first parliamentary election in over a decade and is seen as a critical step in consolidating President Deby’s political power amidst ongoing security challenges.
Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement party has secured a majority in the recent parliamentary elections held last month, marking a significant consolidation of power for President Mahamat Idriss Deby. With 124 out of 188 seats won, the elections, which recorded a voter turnout of 51.5%, were characterized by the absence of major opposition participation. The main opposition parties, including the Transformers party, had opted for a boycott, referring to the elections as a mere ‘charade’ and expressing their concerns over the integrity of the electoral process.
This parliamentary election was the first in over a decade in Chad and coincides with regional and municipal elections. Analysts suggest that the ruling party’s victory reinforces President Deby’s political authority following his rise to power after his father, former president Idriss Deby Itno, passed away. Ahmed Bartchiret, head of the electoral commission, announced these provisional results, indicating a definitive shift in Chad’s political landscape as it embarks on a transition toward democracy.
Following the demise of longtime leader Idriss Deby Itno, who held power for thirty years, the political landscape in Chad has been gradually transforming. President Mahamat Idriss Deby assumed leadership as a military ruler in 2021, which initiated a transitional period towards democracy. This recent parliamentary election, alongside regional and municipal elections, was considered pivotal in actualizing promises of decentralization and distributing power more broadly among local governments, a desired change voiced by many Chadians. However, the boycott by prominent opposition parties raised significant questions regarding the credibility and legitimacy of the electoral process.
In conclusion, the recent parliamentary elections in Chad have resulted in a decisive victory for the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement party, albeit amid a boycott by significant opposition factions. This electoral outcome is viewed as a critical step in consolidating President Mahamat Idriss Deby’s power and advancing the country’s intended democratic transition. However, the lack of opposition participation raises concerns about the overall integrity of the political process moving forward.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
