Chad’s first Senate elections mark a critical phase in its political transition initiated by Mahamat Idriss Deby four years ago. Recently promoted to field marshal, Deby faces criticism for the presidential elections. The elections include 124 candidates from various parties, following significant political reforms that established the Senate to represent autonomous communities. The opposition dismisses the process as flawed amid efforts to solidify governance separate from France.
Chad held its inaugural Senate elections on Tuesday, representing the culmination of a political transition that began four years ago with Mahamat Idriss Deby assuming leadership after his father’s death. Deby, who recently became a field marshal at age 40, aims to reinforce his authority following a contentious presidential term secured in May 2023 amidst opposition boycotts and international criticism.
The indirect Senate elections took place at the N’Djamena town hall, featuring 124 candidates from 16 political parties. This election follows previous legislative elections and a constitutional referendum that collectively altered Chad’s political landscape significantly. The Senate, created in 2020 via constitutional reform, aims to better represent Chad’s autonomous communities.
A reaffirmation of the Senate was part of a December 2023 referendum, in which over 51% of the eight million registered voters participated in various elections. Earlier this year, the Constitutional Council validated the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement’s dominance in the National Assembly, with the MPS securing 124 of 188 seats.
The main opposition party, known as the Transformers, criticized the electoral process, labeling it a “resounding failure” due to widespread boycotts and allegations of predetermined outcomes. In a notable shift, Chad has distanced itself from France, the former colonial power, recently expelling French troops and taking control of former French military bases.
The Senate elections in Chad mark significant steps in the nation’s political evolution, reflecting the ruling party’s efforts to consolidate power. Deby’s administration faces serious criticism from opposition forces and international observers regarding the legitimacy of electoral processes. The political restructuring will likely influence Chad’s governance and its relationship with foreign powers.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
