Chadian opposition calls for the dissolution of the transitional government and the cancellation of the upcoming elections, which they claim have been widely boycotted. Despite government assurances of legitimate vote counting, opposition leaders argue that public dissatisfaction with the current regime has led to low engagement in the electoral process. The government cautions against potential unrest amidst these tensions.
Chadian opposition groups have demanded an immediate cessation of the transitional government and the annulment of the upcoming general elections scheduled for December 29. Representatives from the opposition assert that the elections are significantly boycotted by the public. The National Agency for the Management of Elections (ANGE) has assured that the election results will be tallied accurately, claiming that any alleged irregularities will not sway the final outcome.
As the counting of votes proceeds after Chad’s local, provincial, and parliamentary elections held on Sunday, Assane Bairra, the vice president of ANGE, confirmed that they are progressing towards declaring results despite opposition claims of a low voter turnout. Following the death of former President Idriss Deby in April 2021, the upcoming elections are pivotal in concluding the three-year transitional period led by Deby’s son, Mahamat Idriss Deby, who won the presidential election held in May.
The preliminary results from these elections are anticipated by January 15, according to ANGE. Bairra claimed the elections were conducted fairly and without incident. However, opposition parties have contended that their reported turnout figure of approximately 36% is artificially inflated, emphasizing that the public respected their boycott calls in opposition to what they term as Deby’s dictatorial governance.
Avocksouma Djona, spokesperson for the coalition of opposition parties known as the Political Actors Consultation Group (GCAP), stated that over 90% of the registered voters complied with their calls for boycotting the elections, expressing discontent with Mahamat Deby’s rule and regarding it as an extension of his father’s oppressive regime. Following this sentiment, Succes Masra, president of The Transformers party, has urged for a new transitional process focused on truth, dialogue, and reconciliation to establish a stable political landscape.
Analysts have noted that, despite the opposition’s claims of a substantial boycott and the potential for electoral fraud, there is skepticism regarding the annulment of these elections as requested. The government, in response, contends that such calls are intended to induce chaos and violence, cautioning citizens against engaging in protests that could destabilize the nation.
In Chad, political tensions have been exacerbated by a transitional government following the death of former President Idriss Deby Itno. The power transition led to the establishment of a provisional government headed by his son, Mahamat Idriss Deby. Despite a scheduled election aimed at restoring democratic governance, significant opposition exists, with accusations of electoral manipulation and a lack of public support underscoring a profound political crisis in the nation. Opposition parties are now rallying for the cancellation of the prospectively rigged elections, citing widespread public boycotting as indicative of the populace’s dissent.
In summary, the Chadian opposition seeks an immediate halt to the current transitional government and the cancellation of the upcoming elections, citing widespread public discontent and boycotted participation. Despite official claims of a successful electoral process, the opposition maintains that voter turnout is grossly understated. The government warns that dissent against the electoral process could lead to unrest, indicating a precarious political landscape in Chad that requires careful navigation to avoid further turmoil.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
