Chad’s Ruling Party Secures Majority Amid Opposition Boycott in Election
Chad’s ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) won 124 out of 188 National Assembly seats in a parliamentary election boycotted by opposition parties citing transparency issues. The election, which saw a 51.56% participation rate, is claimed by the government to be a step toward democracy.
The results of Chad’s parliamentary elections, recently held, indicated that the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), led by President Mahamat Idriss Deby, secured a majority with 124 of the 188 seats in the National Assembly. This election saw a low participation rate of 51.56%, predominantly due to a boycott by opposition parties, who criticized the electoral process for its lack of transparency. Despite these concerns, the government asserts that these elections mark a significant step toward establishing democracy within the nation.
The head of the National Elections Management Agency, Ahmed Bartchiret, noted that a total of 38 political groupings would gain representation in the assembly, however, details regarding seat distribution among the non-MPS representatives remain undisclosed. Key opposition figures, including the leader of the Transformateurs party, Succes Masra, maintained that the electoral process was compromised, an accusation that the government categorically rejected.
Chad has been undergoing a political transition following the death of long-time President Idriss Deby in 2021 during an insurgent attack. His son, Mahamat Idriss Deby, took over as interim leader and was later elected president in May 2025. As president, Deby has since distanced Chad from traditional alliances, particularly with France, similar to actions taken by some neighboring nations. This shift raises concerns regarding regional stability and alignments as Chad navigates its post-colonial identity amid growing ties with non-Western powers, especially Russia.
In summary, the recent parliamentary election in Chad has resulted in a significant victory for President Deby’s MPS. However, the legitimacy of the election has been questioned because of a boycott by opposition parties and allegations of transparency issues. Nevertheless, the government claims this electoral result represents progress toward democracy. As Chad continues to evolve politically and militarily, its future relations with international partners remain uncertain, particularly in the context of increasing openness to Russia and distancing from France.
Original Source: www.dw.com
