Chad Elections: Military Protection Requested Amid Rising Violence and Tensions
Chad’s electoral commission requests military help for protection amid rising violence ahead of the December 29 elections. Opposition supporters are attacking the ruling party’s rallies, prompting concerns about election integrity. Over 8 million citizens are registered to vote, but opposition parties label the elections a sham, fearing manipulation by President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who has extended military rule following his father’s death.
Chad’s electoral commission has formally requested military assistance to ensure the safety of election officials and candidates during the upcoming elections on December 29. This request arises amid a surge in violence, with reports suggesting that opposition supporters have resorted to physical attacks employing clubs and iron bars to impede rallies organized by the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) party in various regions.
The National Election Management Agency (ANGE) highlighted that the campaign period for parliamentary, local council, and regional elections has been severely disrupted by these acts of aggression. As Chad approaches a pivotal point in its governance, officials assert that the elections are essential to conclude a three-year transitional period that commenced following the passing of long-term President Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021.
Assane Bairra, Vice President of ANGE, warned that without military intervention, the ongoing tensions could escalate into wider armed conflict. Currently, over 8.3 million citizens of Chad are registered to vote, competing amidst approximately 180 political parties and nearly 1,300 candidates for parliamentary seats, supplemented by thousands more for local positions. To ensure an organized electoral process, more than 1,000 election observers have been accredited.
Despite these preparations, a coalition of more than 75 opposition parties and civil society organizations has denounced the elections as a mere “masquerade.” They argue that President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno is manipulating the electoral process to solidify his control over the nation. Reports indicate that opposition supporters have been actively disrupting MPS campaign activities in multiple cities, including Ndjamena and Bongor. In response, the military has taken steps to dissolve roadblocks established by the opposition to hinder MPS campaigners.
Avocksouma Djona, the president of the Party of Democrats, expressed concerns that the electoral environment is unfairly skewed, asserting that the electoral body’s officials were appointed under Deby’s influence, which compromises the integrity of the electoral process. Djona also advocated for a postponement of the elections, citing that the current constitutional court, also under Deby’s control, would likely manipulate outcomes in favor of his party. President Deby has stated that the upcoming elections will be conducted fairly and transparently; however, opposition voices have raised red flags regarding his intentions to manipulate the results to maintain legislative dominance. The backdrop of these electoral events unfolds against the history of Deby’s ascendance to power in April 2021 after the death of his father, a 30-year leader, promising a transition to civilian governance that has since been prolonged.
Chad has been under a transitional military regime since the death of long-serving President Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021. His son, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, took control and has since faced criticisms regarding the legitimacy and fairness of the electoral process planned for December 29. The nation experiences a tense political atmosphere, exacerbated by violence against the ruling party and ongoing concerns about the influence of military power on civilian governance. This situation culminates in calls for military protection for election officials, which raises questions about the democratic integrity of the electoral process and governance in Chad.
Chad’s imminent elections face significant turbulence, characterized by violent opposition and calls for military intervention to protect the electoral process. The ruling party faces accusations of manipulating the political landscape to secure its dominance. The situation highlights the delicate balance between military authority and the quest for stable civilian governance as Chad seeks to transition from a period of military rule to a more democratic structure. The outcome of these elections will be critical in determining the future political trajectory of Chad and its adherence to democratic principles.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
