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Elections in Chad: A beacon of hope or a mirage of change?
Thousands attend a gathering to support Mahamet Idriss Deby, Chad's transitional leader and candidate for the presidential election [File: Joris Bolomey/AFP]
Chad is gearing up for its first presidential election since the death of long-time leader Idriss Déby Itno. The transition to democratic governance is the culmination of a three-year period that began when Déby died.
The facts
General Mahamat Déby, Déby’s son and heir, is among the leading candidates in the race. Prime Minister Succès Masra is his biggest opponent.
The voting process began with some delays in opening polls. President Déby urged Chadians to vote in large numbers, emphasising the importance of restoring constitutional order. Some candidates were excluded owing to anomalies, causing controversy.
There have been reports of political violence, including the assassination of a possible opponent, Yaya Dillo, by security personnel. Activists have called for a boycott of the election, arguing it is an attempt to legitimise the Déby dynasty.
Chad’s election is a watershed moment in the history of countries under military control since 2020.
The arguments
Although the election promises a democratic transition, many are sceptical that it will result in meaningful change. This is because the candidature of General Mahamat Déby, the late president’s son, raises questions about the future of the Déby dynasty.
Controversies and exclusions
The exclusion of certain candidates, including notable figures such as Nassour Ibrahim Neguy Koursami and Rakhis Ahmat Saleh, for suspected irregularities has stirred debate. Critics say that the exclusions were politically motivated.
Concerns about violence and security
The killing of Yaya Dillo, as well as allegations of political violence against opposition individuals, cast doubt on the election’s impartiality and safety. This has resulted in demands for a boycott and worries about the validity of the election process.
Transition to young leadership
There are concerns about the Déby dynasty but there is also hope that this election will mark a turn towards younger leadership. Both General Mahamat Déby and Prime Minister Succès Masra are relatively young. Masra’s programme aims to end decades of obscurity and darkness in Chad.
Desperate for change
Given the country’s history of political unrest and economic hardship, many Chadians are anxious for change. However, some question if this election will actually address these challenges.
While the results are pending, this election will have a huge impact on Chad’s political environment and may set a precedent for other African junta-led republics.
