As Chad prepares for its upcoming election on Monday, the prevailing sentiment suggests that the incumbent President General Mahamat Idriss Deby will secure a comfortable victory.
Deby ascended to power three years ago following the demise of his father, Idriss Déby Itno, who fell in battle while combatting rebels seeking to destabilize the government.
Having governed Chad with an unwavering grip for three decades, Deby senior left behind a legacy of authoritative rule.
A seasoned military figure, the new president initially pledged to organize elections within 18 months. However, his administration deferred the electoral process, allowing him to vie for the presidency.
While authorities assert that the election signals a return to constitutional governance, opposition factions express skepticism, voicing concerns over potential manipulation of the polls.
President Deby enjoys the backing of the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) party.
Among the prominent challengers is Success Masra, who champions a grassroots movement advocating for universal access to essential services such as electricity, water, and security. Masra remains resolute in his commitment to advancing democratic principles in Chad, despite facing intimidation tactics.
Once a vocal critic of Deby, Masra’s decision to join the interim government as prime minister has led many to perceive him as a political opportunist.
Another formidable contender is former prime minister Albert Pahimi Padacke, who, despite being viewed as an ally of Deby senior, has contested against him multiple times, garnering significant support in previous elections.
Padacke has outlined plans to strengthen national security and institute reforms within the justice system.
Chad marks the first in a series of countries in the region that have witnessed coups in recent years to undergo the electoral process.
While some opposition groups and civil society organizations advocate for a complete boycott of the election, others anticipate the outcome, slated for May 21, with the possibility of a runoff on June 22.
