KEY POINTS
- Opposition absence raises concerns about inclusivity and fairness.
- Chad balances internal politics with its strategic role in the Sahel.
- Citizens call for jobs and better living standards.
Chadians cast their votes Sunday in the country’s first parliamentary election in over a decade, a process widely viewed as consolidating President Mahamat Idriss Deby’s authority.
The election, also including municipal and regional contests, comes after years of political turbulence and aims to transition the nation back to constitutional rule.
The election, however, has faced criticism due to a boycott by major opposition parties, raising questions about its fairness and inclusiveness.
Voting takes place amid an opposition boycott
President Deby, who seized power in 2021 following his father’s death on the battlefield, was controversially elected in May 2024.
His main rival, Succes Masra of the Transformateurs party, alongside other opposition groups, refused to participate in the election. They cited concerns over transparency and alleged manipulation of the political process.
According to Reuters, polls opened Saturday for military personnel and nomadic groups, with general voting starting Sunday. Over eight million citizens are registered to vote, with provisional results expected by January 15, 2025, and final results by January 31.
“This is the first time I’m voting for three different candidates in one election—legislative, provincial, and municipal,” said Moussa Ali Hissein, a 27-year-old voter. “I hope they fulfill their promises, especially by creating jobs for young people.”
Others, like 31-year-old Abel Moungar, expressed cautious optimism. “I was worried about low turnout, but thankfully, many people have come to vote,” he said.
Chad navigates shifting regional dynamics
Chad, a critical player in regional security, is undergoing significant changes in its international alliances. In November, the nation ended its defense cooperation agreement with France and hinted at withdrawing from the multinational security force in the Sahel.
The country, which borders conflict-ridden Sudan, hosts over 600,000 refugees, according to United Nations data.
This humanitarian burden, coupled with internal political challenges, underscores Chad’s precarious position as it balances its role as a regional powerbroker with pressing domestic issues.
Observers note that Chad’s elections are also pivotal for its standing in the Sahel region, where instability and terrorism persist.
President Deby has sought to project strength while navigating these challenges, but critics argue his approach prioritizes consolidating power over addressing systemic issues.
Citizens hope for change despite political skepticism
While the opposition’s boycott casts a shadow over the elections, many Chadians remain hopeful about the future.
“I want to see leaders who truly prioritize the needs of ordinary citizens,” said Hissein. Job creation and improved living conditions are at the forefront of voters’ expectations.
Provisional results will indicate whether President Deby’s party secures a dominant position, as expected, or whether any unexpected political shifts emerge. Regardless of the outcome, the election highlights the broader question of Chad’s political and economic trajectory.
