Chad’s Patriotic Salvation Movement, led by Mahamat Idriss Deby, secured 43 out of 46 Senate seats in the first-ever elections, following a presidential term that was boycotted by opposition groups. The elections faced criticism regarding their credibility, and Deby’s consolidation of power raises concerns amid ongoing security threats in the region.

The Patriotic Salvation Movement (PSM), led by Chad’s military ruler, Mahamat Idriss Deby, has achieved a significant victory in the country’s inaugural senate elections, winning 43 of 46 available seats. The elections, which took place at the end of February, mark a crucial point in the political transition initiated following Deby’s ascension to power after his father’s death four years ago.

Following Deby’s five-year presidential term secured in May — an election boycotted by opposition factions — he has been fortifying his control over Chad. The presidential elections, criticized by international NGOs as lacking both freedom and credibility, have raised questions about the nation’s democratic processes.

The Constitutional Council of Chad later confirmed the allocation of two senate seats to allied parties, initially designated for the PSM, due to appeals made against the results. Subsequently, Deby appointed 23 additional senators to fully constitute the Senate, which is intended to represent Chad’s various autonomous communities.

This newly formed Senate is part of a bicameral parliamentary system established through reforms implemented in 2020 and sanctioned by a new constitution ratified in December 2023. The MPS similarly dominated the legislative elections held in December, winning 124 out of 188 seats in the lower chamber, in a context marked by boycotts from opposition groups.

Amidst growing security challenges, including jihadist attacks by Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region and the recent end of a military cooperation agreement with France, these elections reflect a worrying trend for Chad’s political landscape.

In summary, the Patriotic Salvation Movement’s overwhelming majority in Chad’s Senate, alongside similar dominance in the lower house, underscores the party’s control over Chad’s political framework. The elections, marred by opposition boycotts and criticisms from international observers regarding their legitimacy, highlight ongoing concerns about democracy and security in the region under Deby’s leadership.

Original Source: newscentral.africa

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