After delaying an election originally scheduled for October 2022, Chadians are voting on Monday to end the current military rule.
Voters are choosing a new president in Monday’s vote, the first presidential election in three decades.
When the election was postponed two years ago, it sparked protests which was fiercely quashed by security forces.
Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, 40, the current military leader seize power following the death of his father, the longtime ruler Idriss Deby in 2021.
President Déby was originally intended to step down in 2022, but extended his rule for another two years.
Following that, a crack down on dissent ensued as demonstrators occasionally take to the streets to demand a quicker transition to democratic rule.
Déby though seems likely to win the election despite facing a spirited opponent. He has pledged security, law enforcement, and energy enhancements.
“If I am elected, I will serve my five-year term and at the end of my term, it will be up to the people to judge me. As for a dynasty, our constitution is very clear – a candidate cannot serve more than two successive terms, “ he told the France 24 TV channel.
Prime Minister Succès Masra, 40, is one of the nine other candidates challenging Déby in the election.
Provisional results are expected by May 21 and final results by June 5 but should there be no outright winner, a runoff is slated for June 22.
For any candidate to win, he or she must secure over 50% of the vote. Some 8.5 million people registered to vote.
Source: Africafeeds.com
