Chad’s electoral commission has sought military protection for election officials as violence escalates ahead of the December 29 elections. Opposition groups have resisted the ruling MPS party’s rallies, citing concerns of electoral manipulation by the incumbent president. While millions are registered to vote, significant tensions and accusations of unfair electoral practices loom over the anticipated polls.
Chad’s electoral commission has solicited assistance from the military in light of rising violence targeting election officials and candidates as the December 29 elections approach. Instances have been reported where supporters of the opposition have employed clubs and iron bars to obstruct the ruling MPS party from conducting rallies across various cities and towns. The National Election Management Agency (ANGE) disclosed that the campaigning for parliamentary, local council, and regional elections has faced significant disruptions and increased hostilities directed toward candidates and electoral officials.
Chadian officials have emphasized that the upcoming elections signify the conclusion of a three-year transitional phase instituted following the demise of long-term President Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021. However, ongoing political tensions threaten to escalate into armed confrontations if military protective measures are not enacted promptly, according to ANGE Vice President Assane Bairra. Furthermore, the agency reported that more than 8.3 million of Chad’s 18 million citizens have registered to participate in the vote.
The political landscape is crowded, with approximately 180 parties fielding nearly 1,300 candidates for parliamentary positions, alongside thousands more vying for local council and provincial roles, as highlighted by the government. Despite the presence of over 1,000 accredited election observers, a coalition of more than 75 opposition parties and civil society groups have labeled the elections a “masquerade,” alleging that President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno and his party intend to manipulate the process to cement their authority.
Concerning incidents have arisen this week, where supporters of opposition groups reportedly assaulted MPS campaign caravans in towns such as Ndjamena, Bongor, Abeche, Lai, and Moundou. In response, military forces have dismantled barriers set up by opposition parties to impede MPS campaigners. Avocksouma Djona, president of the Party of Democrats, expressed that his supporters are actively disrupting election rallies for both MPS and opposition candidates, citing a desire to delay the elections due to the direct influence of Deby over the electoral management body and the constitutional court.
President Deby, who ascended to the position in April 2021 following the death of his father, asserted that forthcoming elections will be conducted with fairness and transparency. Nevertheless, opposition groups have quickly denounced this assertion, arguing that Deby seeks to orchestrate the elections to solidify his control over the parliament, reflecting his late father’s governing style. Deby extended the supposed transition from military to civilian governance by an additional two years, having already generated controversy during the contested presidential elections on May 6, which numerous opposition parties chose to boycott.
The political climate in Chad has been marked by turmoil following the death of longtime leader Idriss Deby Itno in 2021. The nation entered a transitional government phase, and the upcoming elections are poised to signify the culmination of this period. However, rising tensions, characterized by opposition-led violence against ruling party campaigns, underscore the fragility of this political transition. The electoral process is further complicated by claims of government manipulation and opposition concerns regarding the integrity and fairness of the elections, as many accuse President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno of seeking to maintain his grip on power.
In conclusion, Chad’s impending elections reveal significant political strife and concerns over security and electoral integrity. The call for military support highlights the escalating violence surrounding the elections, as opposition groups express fears regarding the transparency of the electoral process. The situation remains tense, with various stakeholders questioning the legitimacy of the planned elections and the ruling party’s influence over governmental institutions. As Chad approaches this pivotal moment, the outcomes will likely shape the country’s political landscape for years to come.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
