Chad’s Opposition Demands Cancellation of Elections Amid Boycott Claims

Chadian opposition leaders are demanding the cancellation of the December 29 elections, asserting widespread voter boycotts and electoral irregularities. The National Agency for the Management of Elections maintains the process has been conducted fairly. Opposition figures argue that significant public dissent exists against the ruling leadership, with calls for a new transition focused on dialogue and reconciliation.

Chad experiences rising tensions as opposition leaders demand the cancellation of the upcoming general elections initially slated for December 29. They claim that the elections have already suffered from significant boycotts and alleged irregularities. The opposition’s calls for an end to the transitional government come in the wake of disputes following the death of former President Idriss Deby Itno. According to Chad’s National Agency for the Management of Elections (ANGE), voting is currently being tallied, and they maintain that the electoral process has been conducted transparently. However, opposition groups, including the Political Actors Consultation Group (GCAP), insist that over 90% of registered voters honored the call for a boycott and express discontent towards the ruling leadership of Mahamat Idriss Deby.

Opposition spokesperson Avocksouma Djona emphasized the widespread adherence to the boycott, attributing the public’s resentment to perceived attempts by the Deby regime to prolong its hold on power. Succes Masra, a prominent opposition leader, has called for a reevaluation of the current transition period, advocating for a process grounded in truth and reconciliation. Political analyst Yamingue Betinbaye commented on the opposition’s claims of electoral malpractice, indicating that despite these allegations, annulment of the upcoming elections is improbable. As political strife escalates, the Chadian government urges citizens to avoid following opposition provocations, framing their calls for cancellation as a means to incite violence.

Chad has been under a transitional government since the death of President Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021. His son, Mahamat Idriss Deby, assumed leadership following his father’s death, and elections have been structured to formally conclude the three-year transitional period. However, the run-up to the elections has been rife with allegations of electoral misconduct and boycotts by the opposition, who challenge the legitimacy of the electoral process and governance. These developments occur against a backdrop of increased demands for democratic governance and public frustration with the ruling authorities.

The situation in Chad is marked by significant political unrest, as opposition parties demand the cancellation of upcoming elections, citing excessive boycott participation and alleged electoral fraud. The government maintains that the electoral process has been fair and emphasizes stability. Both sides appear entrenched in their positions, suggesting that the path forward will be fraught with challenges in achieving consensus and stability in the region.

Original Source: www.voanews.com