Chad braces itself for presidential elections on Monday, with incumbent President General Mahamat Idriss Deby widely anticipated to secure a comfortable victory. Deby ascended to power three years ago following the death of his father, Idriss Déby Itno, who was reportedly killed in combat while battling rebels seeking to overthrow his administration. The elder Deby had governed Chad with a firm grip for thirty years.
A career military officer, the current president initially pledged to organize elections within 18 months of assuming office. However, his government postponed the polls, allowing Deby to participate as a candidate for the presidency. Despite assertions from the government that the election would restore constitutional governance, opposition factions express skepticism, voicing concerns over potential electoral manipulation.
Deby’s candidacy is bolstered by the backing of the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) party. Among his principal challengers is Success Masra, who has mounted a grassroots campaign promising improved access to essential services such as electricity, water, and security for all citizens.
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Masra asserts his unwavering commitment to championing democratic principles in Chad, vowing not to be deterred by intimidation tactics. Despite his history as a vocal opponent of the Deby regime, Masra’s decision to join the interim government as prime minister has led some to view him unfavorably, labeling him a turncoat.
Another significant opposition contender is former prime minister Albert Pahimi Padacke, who was previously perceived as an ally of the late President Deby. Padacke, despite running against him on multiple occasions, garnered 10 percent of the presidential vote in 2021. He has pledged to prioritize bolstering security measures and initiating reforms within the justice system.
Chad’s electoral process marks a pivotal moment for the nation, being the first in a series of countries in the region that have experienced coups in recent years to hold elections. Amidst escalating calls from some opposition factions and civil society groups for a complete boycott of the election, the country braces for a contentious electoral outcome.
The election results are slated to be announced on May 21, with the possibility of a second round of voting scheduled for June 22, should no candidate secure a definitive majority in the initial round.
Source: African News