Chad’s Elections: A Contested Step Towards Democratic Transition

Chad is conducting elections that the government claims promote democratic transition, but opposition parties label them a “masquerade.” President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno leads against a backdrop of jihadist violence and humanitarian crises. The opposition is boycotting, alleging electoral manipulation and repression, which underscores the tensions present in the nation’s politics.

Chad is conducting legislative and local elections, which the government led by President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno asserts represent a significant milestone towards a democratic transition. However, opposition parties have characterized the elections as a mere “masquerade.” These elections unfold amid persistent violence from the jihadist group Boko Haram and ongoing tensions following the dissolution of a military accord with France. Accusations of foreign interference in the crises affecting neighboring Sudan further complicate the political landscape.

President Mahamat Deby seized power in 2021 following the death of his father, Idriss Deby Itno, who had maintained authoritarian control over Chad for thirty years. Deby junior garnered a controversial five-year presidential mandate in a May election that was criticized by the opposition as fraudulent. His administration claims these general elections will facilitate a necessary “generational renewal” in both the National Assembly and local governments, as noted by a presidential advisor.

The last legislative elections occurred in 2011, with subsequent elections delayed due to jihadist threats, economic hardships, and the coronavirus pandemic. Following the elder Deby’s passing, a transitional parliament consisting of 93 members was established by presidential decree. Opposition leaders are boycotting the elections, arguing that participating under the current regime equates to endorsing a form of legislative discrimination. Succes Masra, head of the Transformers party, articulated this sentiment, asserting that voting under these conditions equates to participating in “legislative apartheid.”

Conversely, Minister of Infrastructure Aziz Mahamat Saleh insisted that the elections will empower the president to enact his political agenda. However, critics, including constitutional expert Professor Ahmat Mahamat Hassan, contend that these elections serve only to legitimize a dynasty-like administration facing escalating domestic and international protests. Further complicating the electoral process, a media blackout has arisen as journalists strike against government-imposed restrictions. Amidst these socio-political challenges, Chad grapples with humanitarian crises, such as a recent devastating rainy season that led to 500 fatalities and displaced two million individuals.

The context of Chad’s upcoming elections is marked by a tumultuous political climate shaped by the recent leadership transition following the death of long-time ruler Idriss Deby Itno in 2021. His son, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, assumed control and has faced accusations of fostering an autocratic regime reminiscent of his father’s rule. The opposition’s boycott of the elections highlights significant dissatisfaction and allegations of electoral manipulation. Additionally, lethal violence from Boko Haram and humanitarian crises in the region compound the challenges facing Chad’s governance. The elections are further complicated by media restrictions, signaling potential threats to democracy and civil liberties in the country.

In conclusion, Chad’s legislative and local elections are viewed through a lens of skepticism by opposition parties, who denounce the proceedings as a facade lacking true democratic integrity. While the government argues for the necessity of these elections as a means of legitimizing authority and instigating political reform, the prevailing atmosphere of violence, media suppression, and humanitarian despair suggests a complex and precarious path forward for the nation’s political future.

Original Source: www.barrons.com