Chad’s interim president, Mahamat Idriss Deby, launched his presidential campaign on Sunday, promising to strengthen security and revive the economy as the country prepares for an election next month. The vote is expected to end a three-year military rule that began after Deby’s father, Idriss Deby, died in 2021.
Deby’s ascent to power marked one of several instances of military takeovers in West and Central Africa since 2020, raising concerns about democratic regression. Chad, however, is the first nation in the region to organize elections despite international pressure for a swift civilian handover.
“Today, we stand at the final bend on the path to constitutional order,” Deby declared to a large crowd gathered at a high-security event in N’Djamena, the capital, under scorching heat. “You know me, I am a soldier, and I keep my promises,” he added, barely visible behind a throng of bodyguards surrounding the podium.
Deby emphasized his commitment to strengthening internal security to ensure peace and stability within the nation.
From Military Rule to Civilian Vote: A Checkered Path
In 2021, Deby assumed power after his father, who had ruled Chad for three decades, was killed while battling rebels in the north. Initially, he pledged a return to civilian rule within 18 months. However, his administration subsequently delayed the elections until 2024, allowing him to participate in the presidential race.
This delay sparked protests that security forces forcefully suppressed, resulting in approximately 50 civilian deaths. Deby defended his actions, stating, “Governing Chad is not easy. It’s simple to criticize from afar on social media.”
His decision to run for president came in early March, just days after opposition politician Yaya Dillo died in a shootout with security forces. This incident heightened concerns regarding the fairness of the upcoming election, with forensic experts later suggesting Dillo was likely shot at close range.
Deby faces competition from nine other candidates, including Chad’s recently appointed Prime Minister, Succes Masra, a staunch critic of the junta. This marks the first time in Chad’s history that a sitting president and prime minister will go head-to-head in a presidential election.
The first round of voting is scheduled for May 6th, with a potential second round on June 22nd. Provisional results are expected on July 7th.
Looking Ahead: Pledges for Security, Economy, and Stability
During his inauguration speech, Deby outlined plans to modernize agriculture, bolster Chad’s industrial sector, expand paved roads, and establish reliable access to electricity. These initiatives aim to address widespread poverty, with over 40% of the population living below the national poverty line. Chad is also grappling with an influx of refugees fleeing conflict in neighboring Sudan, further straining the nation’s food security.
While the path to this election has been turbulent, Chad’s upcoming vote offers a glimmer of hope for a return to democratic rule. The success of the election hinges on ensuring a fair and credible process, allowing Chadians to choose their leader freely.
Source: Reuters
