Legislative Council, provincial and municipal elections to be held on December 29

Chad is preparing for a historic vote on December 29, its first legislative elections since 2011.

Chad is preparing for a historic moment on December 29, 2024, with the first legislative, provincial and municipal elections since 2011. The announcement, made by Ahmed Barticheret, president of the National Electoral Management Body (ANGE), marks a key step for a country still reeling from A delicate political transitionFor some, the election was a promise of a return to constitutional order, while others saw it as a hasty attempt to close a chapter of uncertainty.

Election calendar under pressure

The electoral agenda is now set: applications are expected between October 19 and 28, 2024, with the final results to be announced on February 3, 2025. However, the organization of this election is based on the old electoral roll, lacking the time and resources for a new census. This decision has caused criticism, especially from civil society and certain opposition parties, who denounce unfair electoral boundaries. Jean Bosco Manga, an emblematic figure of civil society, considers this calendar a “pliers devotion” that does not allow the organization of truly transparent elections.

The ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) has expressed confidence and said it is ready to meet the deadline. MPS Secretary-General Mahamat Zen Bada said “we absolutely have to restore constitutional order” to complete the transition by the end of 2024. However, the opposition remains skeptical, believing that the election is a ploy to legitimize the current constitution. There is no real democratic opening to the regime. Transformers Party Masra’s successFor example, preparations are being made for a congress in September, while denouncing the conditions for organizing these elections.

Civil society between hope and disillusionment

Against this backdrop, Chadian civil society is divided. While some hope that these elections will finally turn the page on the transition, others fear that the process will be biased from the outset. The tight timetable and lack of deep electoral reforms are seen as the main obstacles to holding a free and transparent vote. ChadAlready weakened by years of instability, the United States must now face a major challenge: organizing credible elections that truly reflect the will of the people.