Chad’s Ruling Party Secures Majority Amid Opposition Boycott of Elections
Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement has secured a majority in the parliamentary elections held in December, winning 124 of 188 seats amid an opposition boycott. President Mahamat Idriss Déby stated the elections will facilitate decentralization. Despite a reported voter turnout of 51.5%, over ten opposition parties criticized the legitimacy of the proceedings, drawing parallels to the disputed presidential vote of the previous year.
In December, Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (PSM) achieved a decisive majority in the parliamentary elections, winning 124 out of the 188 available seats, according to provisional results released by the electoral commission. This victory comes despite a boycott from over ten opposition parties, which deemed the elections a “charade.” The electoral process also encompassed regional and municipal elections and marked a historic return to parliamentary voting after more than a decade without such elections. Voter turnout was reported at 51.5%.
President Mahamat Idriss Déby, who has held power since a military takeover in 2021 following the death of his father, former president Idriss Déby Itno, stressed that this election is instrumental in transitioning Chad towards decentralization, empowering regional governance. Nonetheless, the election has faced criticism for its credibility, echoing concerns raised during the previous presidential vote, which was also deemed questionable by various observers. The opposition has remained silent concerning the recent election outcomes. Furthermore, Chad continues to face numerous security issues, including threats from Boko Haram and adjusting its military relationship with France.
Chad’s political landscape has been tumultuous, particularly after President Mahamat Idriss Déby assumed power following his father’s lengthy regime. Transitioning from a military rule to a democratic framework has been a significant challenge, which this parliamentary election was intended to address. The election is a pivotal moment as it represents the first parliamentary election in over ten years and aims to distribute power more equitably among various levels of governance, a demand by the Chadian populace. Opposition parties, however, have expressed deep skepticism about the election’s integrity and transparency.
The ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement’s significant victory in Chad’s legislative elections amidst an opposition boycott underscores the ongoing challenges in establishing credible democratic processes in the country. With a voter turnout of 51.5% and claims of illegitimacy from opposing parties, concerns over the electoral integrity remain prevalent. As Chad navigates this transitional phase, the impacts of this election on regional governance and stability warrant close observation.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
