Chadians are preparing to vote for a new president, in what is expected to be the most-watched election in three decades. The ruling military government, which took power in 2021, is now transitioning to democracy, although some experts believe the election is merely a formality to formalize the military’s hold on power. The political situation in Chad has been tumultuous, with fierce resistance from opposition forces and the fatal shooting of a prominent opposition figure, Yaya Dillo, earlier this year.
Chad is facing significant challenges, being one of the poorest countries in the world with a large population living below the poverty line. In addition, the country is experiencing pressure from the conflict in neighboring Sudan, with hundreds of thousands of refugees seeking shelter in Chad. The country’s army, known to be among the best in the region, plays a crucial role in fighting armed groups like Boko Haram, making the outcome of the election critical not just for Chad, but for the entire region.
The main candidate in the upcoming election is General Mahamat Idriss Deby, who took over as interim president following his father’s death in 2021. Critics have accused him of illegally seizing power and have called for him to step down in favor of the head of parliament. The opposition includes figures like Succes Masra, Albert Pahimi Padacke, and others, who have faced harassment and crackdowns under Deby’s rule. The political landscape is complex, with alliances and rivalries shaping the electoral contest.
The elections have raised concerns about their fairness, with some experts skeptical that they will be free and fair. Deby’s government has implemented some reforms, such as setting up election management agencies, but critics doubt their independence due to their ties to the ruling party. Chad’s struggling economy and overreliance on oil revenue also pose challenges for the country’s future. With Deby likely to win the election, there are fears of continued authoritarian rule and economic stagnation.
Despite these challenges, there are hopes that Prime Minister Masra, a respected economist, could bring positive changes to Chad if given the opportunity. His candidacy, along with other opposition figures, adds some diversity to the political landscape and raises the possibility of alternative leadership. The outcome of the election will have far-reaching implications for Chad and the region, with the country’s stability and economic development at stake. Observers will be closely watching the results of the election and the impact it will have on Chad’s future direction.
