Chadian Opposition Calls for Election Cancellation Amid Allegations of Fraud
Chad’s opposition demands the cancellation of the December 29 elections, alleging a significant boycott and electoral fraud. The National Agency for the Management of Elections maintains that voting irregularities will not affect the results. As tensions rise, political leaders call for a new transition characterized by dialogue and reconciliation amid fears of potential violence.
In Chad, a notable calm persists as opposition parties demand the dissolution of the transitional government and the cancellation of the upcoming December 29 elections, citing widespread electoral boycott. The National Agency for the Management of Elections (ANGE) is currently engaged in vote counting, asserting that reported irregularities will not affect the overall outcomes. Assane Bairra, ANGE’s vice president, confirmed that the elections are aimed at concluding a three-year transitional phase following the death of former President Idriss Deby Itno in April 2021. Provisional results for these elections are anticipated by January 15, according to ANGE. While the agency claims that voter turnout reached approximately 36% of the nation’s 8.3 million registered voters, opposition representatives contend that actual participation was much lower, owing to a significant boycott by citizens in solidarity with the opposition’s calls.
Avocksouma Djona, spokesperson for the Political Actors Consultation Group (GCAP), indicated that over 90% of registered voters adhered to the boycott, motivated by the public’s perception that Deby intended to perpetuate his late father’s authoritarian regime. Furthermore, Succes Masra, who leads The Transformers political party, urged for a new transitional period focused on truth, dialogue, and inclusivity to ensure a stable political environment. He expressed concerns that the existing tensions could escalate into violence. Despite the opposition’s assertions about electoral integrity, political analyst Yamingue Betinbaye suggested that it is improbable the government will annul the elections. The administration has characterized opposition demands for cancellation and a fresh transition as provocations aimed at inciting chaos in the country and encouraged citizens to reject calls for unrest.
Chad’s political landscape has been tumultuous, particularly following the death of President Idriss Deby in April 2021, which necessitated a transitional government led by his son, Mahamat Idriss Deby. This transition was established to steer the country towards stability and restore democratic governance. However, allegations of electoral malpractice and opposition boycotts have cast significant doubts on the legitimacy of the electoral process. The current call for the cancellation of impending elections highlights profound discontent among political factions and raises concerns over the risks of escalating tensions in the country.
In conclusion, the political climate in Chad remains fraught with tension, as opposition parties challenge the legitimacy of the upcoming elections and call for a new and transparent transition. With claims of a significant electoral boycott and accusations of governmental misconduct, the future of Chad’s governance hangs in the balance. Observers warn of the potential for increased violence should the ongoing struggles between the government and opposition continue to intensify. The outcomes of the elections, scheduled for December 29, will play a critical role in determining the nation’s political trajectory.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
