Chadian opposition is demanding the annulment of the December 29 elections, asserting a significant boycott by voters. The National Agency for the Management of Elections insists on the legitimacy of the elections, while opposition leaders allege widespread fraud and suppression of dissent. Tensions rise as calls for a new political transition emphasize the need for dialogue and stability.

In Chad, tension has arisen as the opposition demands the immediate dissolution of the transitional government and the cancellation of the upcoming elections scheduled for December 29. This call follows claims that the elections were widely boycotted. The National Agency for the Management of Elections (ANGE) has confirmed that the vote counting is in progress and that the reported irregularities will not affect the overall election results. Public participation in the elections is reported to be around 36%, a figure contested by opposition leaders who assert that compliance with their boycott campaign was over 90%.

The transitional elections, meant to conclude a three-year transition period after the death of President Idriss Déby Itno, saw his son, Mahamat Idriss Déby, declared the winner earlier this year. Avocksouma Djona, acting as a spokesperson for the Political Actors Consultation Group (GCAP), highlighted growing dissatisfaction among Chadians toward the alleged continuation of authoritarian rule under Deby. He expressed that the recent election turnout reflected the population’s defiance against a regime accused of suppressing dissenting voices.

Success Masra, the president of The Transformers and former prime minister, has called for a new transitional phase defined by truth and reconciliation to foster inclusive governance. He warned that the prevailing unrest could escalate into violence, reinforcing the need for a legitimate political process. Political analyst Yamingue Betinbaye expressed skepticism regarding the potential annulment of the elections, noting that, despite the claims of electoral misconduct, it is improbable that the government will heed these calls.

The administration, facing widespread criticism and demands for a new political era, has labeled the opposition’s demands as attempts to incite chaos and violence in the country. The government has urged citizens not to comply with opposition-led protests that threaten national stability.

Chad has been navigating a complex political landscape since the death of President Idriss Déby Itno in April 2021, which precipitated a transitional government led by his son, Mahamat Idriss Déby. The country has been under increasing pressure from opposition forces and civil society groups advocating for democratic reforms and increased political representation. The upcoming elections are intended to signal the end of a prolonged transitional period, but accusations of electoral fraud and manipulation have complicated the political discourse.

In summary, the political situation in Chad remains tense as opposition parties push for the cancellation of the upcoming elections, citing widespread boycott and calls for reform. The ruling government maintains that the elections will proceed and that the process has been transparent. With ongoing protests and discontent among the populace, the potential for violence and unrest looms, underscoring the urgent need for a legitimate political dialogue and resolution.

Original Source: www.voanews.com

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