Chad voted in legislative, provincial, and local elections, viewed as the final stage of a political transition after three years of military rule. The opposition boycotted, allowing candidates allied to Marshal Mahamat Idriss Itno to dominate the elections, which are shadowed by allegations of fraud and limited media coverage. These elections follow a disputed presidential election and reflect ongoing political tensions and security threats in the region.
On Sunday, Chad conducted legislative, provincial, and local elections, deemed the final phase of a political transition following three years of military governance. The elections, however, are being significantly impacted by a boycott from opposition parties, primarily leaving the field to candidates supporting Marshal Mahamat Idriss Itno, who ascended to power following a military coup in 2021. The recent elections follow a controversial presidential election last May, which the opposition labelled as fraudulent.
Opposition leader Succes Masra vocally criticized the electoral process. He stated, “It is better to stay at home,” highlighting concerns about a governmental “system built on lies and electoral theft.” The Democratic Party of the Chadian People (PDPT) further alleged the disappearance of over a thousand ballots, urging citizens to remain vigilant against possible electoral fraud orchestrated by the ruling MPS party.
Polling stations opened from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. for approximately eight million registered voters, monitored by numerous foreign observers. Voting commenced early for soldiers and police officers, amid warnings about persistent threats from Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region and rising tensions linked to the government’s involvement in conflicts in Sudan.
Marshal Itno positioned these elections as pivotal in transitioning to democracy. His presidency followed the death of his father, Idriss Deby Itno, a leader known for his autocratic rule spanning three decades. Chad had not held legislative elections since 2011, with prior attempts delayed due to various crises. The opposition has condemned the increasingly authoritarian stance of the current regime, referencing instances of violence against dissenters, such as the violent crackdown on protests in October 2022.
Additionally, the media landscape faces severe restrictions, exacerbated by a strike from online journalists protesting censorship. Consequently, the private press is absent from covering the election, unable to secure government subsidies typically allocated for such occasions.
Chad has experienced considerable political upheaval, particularly since the military takeover in 2021, which led to Marshal Mahamat Idriss Itno assuming power after his father’s lengthy rule ended with his death. The current political environment is marked by accusations of fraud and repression against opposition members, and the government has struggled to engage its citizens in the political process. The challenges facing Chad’s governance are compounded by security threats from groups like Boko Haram, as well as strained relations with former colonial power France. Furthermore, economic struggles and the impact of the global pandemic have contributed to the complicated nature of Chad’s elections.
In conclusion, the recent elections in Chad underscore the significant challenges facing the nation as it navigates the aftermath of military rule. The opposition’s boycott reflects widespread disillusionment with the electoral process, raising concerns about legitimacy and transparency. As the voting unfolds amidst claims of electoral fraud and restrictions on media coverage, the commitment to a genuine democratic transition remains in question. The international community continues to observe with great interest the developments in Chad’s political landscape.
Original Source: www.barrons.com
