Chad’s Ruling Party Secures Majority Amid Election Controversy
Chad’s ruling party, the Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), has emerged victorious in the country’s parliamentary elections, securing 124 out of 188 seats in the National Assembly. The announcement, made by Ahmed Bartchiret, head of the electoral commission, marks a significant milestone in the country’s political landscape but has drawn criticism from opposition groups and raised questions about the election’s legitimacy.
Voter Turnout and Opposition Boycott
The elections, held on December 29, 2024, recorded a 51.56% voter turnout. However, opposition parties argue this figure reflects widespread skepticism among citizens. More than ten opposition parties, including the prominent Transformers party led by Succes Masra, boycotted the elections, branding the process a “charade.” This boycott follows allegations of irregularities in previous elections, including last year’s presidential vote, which opposition groups and international observers criticized as non-credible.
Transition to Democracy or Consolidation of Power?
President Mahamat Idriss Deby, who assumed power in 2021 following the death of his father, longtime President Idriss Deby Itno, has framed the parliamentary elections as a pivotal step in Chad’s transition to democracy. This marks the country’s first parliamentary vote in over a decade and also included municipal and regional elections. Deby emphasized that the elections would decentralize power, a move he claimed reflects the aspirations of the Chadian people.
However, critics remain unconvinced. Many see the results as a continuation of Deby’s efforts to consolidate power, following his military takeover in 2021 and subsequent election victory in a contested presidential vote.
Security and Regional Dynamics
The elections occur amid escalating security challenges in Chad. The country faces threats from the Boko Haram insurgency in the Lake Chad region and is navigating shifting alliances following its decision to end military cooperation with France. This decision mirrors similar moves by Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which have turned to Russia for military support after severing ties with their former colonial power.
Tensions reached a new high this week when Chadian security forces thwarted what the government described as a “destabilization attempt” targeting the presidency. The incident underscores the fragile state of Chad’s political and security environment.
Conclusion
While the parliamentary election has been hailed by Chad’s ruling party as a step toward democratization, opposition boycotts and widespread skepticism highlight deep divisions in the country. As Chad navigates its security challenges and transitions to a decentralized system of governance, the credibility of its democratic processes remains under scrutiny.
Source : Swifteradio.com
