Chad’s Interim Leader Steps Up for Election Campaign Kickoff
Chad’s interim President, Mahamat Idriss Déby, has embarked on his campaign trail for the upcoming presidential elections, aiming to guide his country back to democratic civilian governance. Set to compete against nine other candidates in the scheduled poll on May 6th, including junta-appointed Prime Minister Succès Masra, Déby expressed his commitment to fulfilling his promises during his first campaign rally in the capital, N’Djamena.
Addressing the crowd, Déby, a seasoned soldier, emphasized his dedication to strengthening security measures and ensuring Chad’s peace and stability. Having assumed power in 2021 following the passing of his father, Déby initially pledged an 18-month transition to democratic rule. However, the elections were later postponed to this year, prompting protests that were forcefully quelled by security forces.
Despite criticism from some opposition figures who have denounced the electoral process as a sham, Déby is widely anticipated to secure victory. His main rival, opposition leader Yaya Dillo, was tragically killed in a confrontation with security forces on February 28th, following accusations linking him to a deadly attack on the country’s security agency—a charge he vehemently denied.
Furthermore, last month, the Constitutional Court’s decision to disqualify 10 other candidates, including two outspoken junta critics, stirred controversy and raised concerns about the fairness of the electoral process. These developments underscore Chad’s challenges as it navigates its path towards democratic governance amidst political turbulence and ongoing security threats.
As Déby presses forward with his campaign, the eyes of the nation and the international community remain focused on Chad, awaiting the outcome of the elections and the subsequent implications for the country’s political landscape.
