Low Turnout Expected in Chad’s Multi-Tier Election
Chad went to the polls on Sunday for a general election, aimed at transitioning from military rule, although the opposition’s call for a boycott significantly impacted voter turnout. Midday statistics from the elections management agency, ANGE, indicated only a 38% participation rate for the parliamentary, provincial, and local council elections.
Voter Apathy and Opposition Influence
In affluent areas, election officials attributed the low turnout to “cold weather,” but opposition parties argued that the electorate heeded their call to abstain, believing the election outcomes were predetermined. Succes Masra, head of the Transformers party, claimed that the majority of voters followed their directive to stay home.
President Deby Urges Participation
Despite the boycott, President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who assumed power through military means in 2021 and was later elected in a controversial presidential vote, encouraged citizens to vote, describing the day as “historic” on his social media.
Skepticism Among Voters
The sentiment among some Chadians was one of disillusionment. Herve Natouingan, a former construction worker, dismissed voting as “pointless” due to perceived lack of genuine electoral process. Conversely, Patrice Lumumba Deoumoundou voted in hopes of broader socio-economic changes, reflecting a mixed response to the elections.
Special Voting Arrangements
Soldiers, police, and nomads voted a day earlier. The election agency reported a “record” turnout among these groups, with 72% from the army and 54% from nomads, indicating significant stakes locally.
Challenges and Allegations
The electoral process has been marred by accusations of pre-election rigging. The opposition Democratic Party of the Chadian People reported missing ballots in Bongor, urging vigilance against alleged fraud by the ruling MPS party.
Regional Context and Security
The election occurs amidst ongoing security threats from Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region, the termination of a military agreement with France, and claims of Chad’s involvement in Sudan’s civil conflict.
Transition to Democracy
The government portrays these elections as the culmination of a transition to democratic governance. Deby’s rise to power followed his father’s three-decade rule, setting the stage for this pivotal moment in Chad’s political landscape.
Election Monitoring
About 100 foreign observers and party representatives are overseeing the voting, which continues until 6:00 pm local time.
