Chad is preparing for its upcoming presidential election in May, with 10 candidates cleared to run by the Constitutional Council. However, two prominent opposition figures, Nassour Ibrahim Neguy Koursami and Rakhis Ahmat Saleh, have been barred from standing due to irregularities in their applications. This decision has raised concerns about the fairness of the election process.
The elections are part of a transition back to democracy in Chad, which has been under military rule since a coup in 2021. President Mahamat Idriss Deby and Prime Minister Succes Masra are among the candidates approved to run in the election. This will be the first time in Chad’s history that a president and prime minister will face each other in a presidential poll, highlighting the country’s move towards a more democratic system of governance.
Deby’s government faced protests in response to its initial plans to postpone elections until 2024 and allow him to run for president. The adoption of a new constitution that critics say could help cement his grip on power further fueled opposition to his rule. Masra, who had previously fled the country after a crackdown on demonstrations, has since returned and is now participating in the political process.
Despite the approval of Deby and Masra as candidates, opposition parties have called for a boycott of the presidential vote, accusing the government of perpetuating a “dynastic dictatorship.” The recent killing of General Deby’s main rival, Yaya Dillo Djerou, in an army assault on his party headquarters has raised further concerns about the environment for the upcoming elections. Human Rights Watch has called for an independent investigation into Dillo’s murder.
In response to the concerns raised about the election process, Prime Minister Masra has promised to hold an international inquiry to determine responsibility for Dillo’s death. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the credibility of the election and the future of Chad’s democracy. As the country prepares for a historic presidential election, the political landscape remains volatile, with tensions running high between the government and opposition forces.
