Chad’s Ruling Party Secures Majority Despite Opposition Boycott in Elections

Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) won a majority in a parliamentary election boycotted by opposition parties. MPS obtained 124 out of 188 seats, with a participation rate of 51.56%. Opposition groups condemned the elections as lacking transparency, while Deby aimed to position these results as pivotal to democratization in Chad.

Chad’s ruling party, the Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), has claimed victory in the recent parliamentary elections, securing a majority despite a boycott by opposition parties. According to the National Elections Management Agency (ANGE), MPS successfully captured 124 of the 188 seats in the National Assembly, with a participation rate of approximately 51.56%. The agency reported that 38 political groups would be represented in the assembly, although the distribution of seats among non-MPS members remains unclear. Opposition factions, including Succes Masra’s Transformateurs (Transformers) party, boycotted the elections, citing concerns over the lack of transparency.

The recent parliamentary elections were interpreted by President Mahamat Idriss Deby and his government as crucial for Chad’s transition towards a democratic framework. Deby ascended to the presidency in May 2022, following his declaration as interim leader after the death of his father, who had ruled for 30 years. This transition occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions regarding security relationships, particularly with France, against which Chad has signaled a shift towards reliance on other military partnerships such as Russia.

In summary, the ruling MPS party has solidified its power in Chad’s parliamentary landscape despite opposition claims of a flawed electoral process. President Deby’s administration continues to navigate a complex security environment and regional relationships, particularly distancing itself from former colonial powers. As Chad moves forward, the implications of these elections on the nation’s governance and its democratic aspirations remain to be observed.

Original Source: www.dw.com