By Blessing Nweke
Chad, a nation marred by decades of autocratic governance, is poised to make history on Monday with its first presidential vote since the demise of long-time ruler Idriss Deby Itno. The transition to democratic rule comes after a tumultuous three-year period following Deby’s sudden death while battling insurgents, marking a significant turning point for the nation and the region.
General Mahamat Déby, the late president’s son and successor, stands as a frontrunner in the race, raising skepticism among some about the potential for genuine change. Prime Minister Succès Masra emerges as his primary challenger among a field of nine contenders, vying to break the stronghold of the Déby dynasty.
However, the path to the election has been fraught with controversy. The exclusion of key figures like Nassour Ibrahim Neguy Koursami and Rakhis Ahmat Saleh due to alleged irregularities has sparked accusations of political manipulation. Moreover, the violent death of opposition figure Yaya Dillo earlier this year has cast a shadow over the electoral process, with activists decrying what they perceive as attempts to consolidate power within the ruling elite.
Calls for a boycott from exiled activists highlight lingering grievances stemming from a deadly crackdown on dissent in 2022, underscoring the fragility of Chad’s democratic aspirations. Despite these challenges, Monday’s vote symbolizes a significant milestone for a region plagued by military coups, offering a potential blueprint for transitioning from authoritarian rule.
With a population of nearly 18 million, Chad has grappled with political instability since gaining independence from France in 1960. Idriss Déby’s decades-long grip on power, culminating in his death on the battlefield, underscored the entrenched nature of authoritarianism in the country. His son’s ascension to the presidency, initially framed as a temporary measure, has reignited debates about dynastic rule and political legitimacy.
General Déby, in a bid to assuage concerns about familial succession, has pledged to abide by constitutional term limits if elected, emphasizing his commitment to democratic norms. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Masra, a prominent economist, has positioned himself as a beacon of change, rallying Chadians disillusioned by decades of stagnation and oppression.
As the nation stands on the cusp of a new era, the mood among voters reflects a mix of hope and despair. While many yearn for the promise of youthful leadership and genuine reform, others remain wary of entrenched power structures and the specter of continued repression. The outcome of Monday’s election will not only shape Chad’s future but also serve as a bellwether for democratic aspirations across West and Central Africa.
