In a pivotal moment for Chad’s political landscape, the country’s Supreme Court is set to announce the final results of the constitutional referendum, marking a significant step towards the restoration of civilian rule. The military leadership has vowed to honor the outcome, underscoring the potential for a transition towards a civilian-governed state.
Following the release of provisional results, indicating a resounding 86% approval for the new constitution, Chad’s transitional military government affirmed its commitment to facilitating a seamless handover to civilian authority by December 2024. General Mahamat Idriss Deby, the incumbent leader, expressed acknowledgment and gratitude towards the citizens, political stakeholders, and civil society advocates for their role in ensuring the peaceful conduct of the referendum.
Amidst the prevailing optimism, challenges to the validity of the referendum have emerged. Opposition leaders and civil society organizations have contested the reported voter turnout, asserting that a substantial portion of eligible voters did not participate. Furthermore, concerns have been raised regarding the perceived intentions of the military leadership, with skepticism surrounding their willingness to relinquish power to civilian governance.
The opposition’s skepticism stems from a history of political turbulence, compounded by General Mahamat Idriss Deby’s ascension to power following the demise of his father, General Idriss Deby Itno, who had assumed control through a coup in 1990. The failure to conduct elections within the promised timeframe, coupled with the extension of Deby’s rule until November 2024, has fueled apprehensions about the potential consolidation of power within the ruling family.
Saleh Kebzabo, Chad’s civilian transitional prime minister appointed by Deby, has rebuffed allegations of ulterior motives, urging political entities and civil society groups to shift their focus towards preparing for the forthcoming elections slated for December 2024. Kebzabo emphasized the referendum’s significance in paving the way for civilian governance, although the opposition contends that it does not preclude Deby from pursuing the presidency.
Notably, the referendum also delineates Chad’s trajectory as a decentralized system of governance, stipulating enhanced financial autonomy for the country’s 23 regions along with the election of regional officials.
As the Supreme Court prepares to deliver the definitive results, all stakeholders remain poised for the outcome, with expectations aligned with the provisional results. The convergence of divergent perspectives underscores the complex interplay of forces shaping Chad’s political landscape as it charts its path towards civilian governance.
