Chad Holds Elections Post-Military Rule Amid Opposition Boycott

Chadians are voting in a parliamentary election that ends a three-year military rule, despite a boycott by the opposition. This is the first parliamentary election in over a decade following a disputed presidential election won by junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby, who took power in 2021 after his father’s death.

Chadians participated in a parliamentary and regional election on Sunday, marking a significant transition from three years of military rule. This election, the first of its kind in over a decade, was conducted despite a boycott by the main opposition parties. The event follows the contentious presidential election won by junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby, who assumed power in 2021 after the death of his father, long-time president Idriss Deby Itno, who ruled for thirty years.

Following the death of Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021, Mahamat Idriss Deby took control of Chad, leading to a transitional military government. With the aim of restoring civilian rule, the military authorities established a three-year transitional period, which culminated in this parliamentary election. However, this political transition has been marred by disputes, particularly regarding the legitimacy of recent elections, thus prompting the boycott by the opposition parties who contest the fairness of the electoral process.

The parliamentary elections in Chad represent a pivotal moment in the nation’s political landscape, potentially ending a prolonged period of military governance. However, the absence of opposition participation raises concerns regarding the inclusiveness and credibility of the electoral process, calling into question the potential for a genuine democratic transition. As Chad moves forward, the outcomes of these elections will be closely monitored both domestically and internationally.

Original Source: www.wdrb.com