Chad to become the first of Africa's current junta-led states to move to democracy

Chad is about to become the first of Africa's current junta-led states to transition to democratic rule with its ongoing presidential election.
This election concludes a three-year interim period following the unexpected passing of the longtime leader Idriss Déby Itno.
There are concerns that violence may erupt if the procedure is perceived as biased.

This election concludes a three-year interim period following the unexpected passing of the longtime leader Idriss Déby Itno.

However, with General Mahamat Déby, the late leader's son and successor, being among the frontrunners in the election, there remains skepticism about the potential for genuine change under his leadership.

Starting the process by voting in the capital, N’Djamena, President Déby expressed his satisfaction in fulfilling his commitment to respect the deadline for “elections that will signal a return to constitutional order.”

“It’s up to the Chadian people to vote massively and choose their president,” he said.

DON'T MISS THIS: A timeline of coups in Africa over three years

There are concerns that violence may erupt if the procedure is perceived as biased. Yaya Dillo, a prominent opposition figure, was assassinated in February, and the electoral commission subsequently disqualified two more opposition contenders from participating, intensifying worries that the election is not legitimate.

About 8.5 million people have registered to vote. Provisional results are expected to be announced by May 21, with final results following on June 5.

In the event that no candidate secures more than 50% of the votes, a run-off election will take place on June 22.

Pillars of campaign

Key concerns in the electoral campaign revolve around the skyrocketing cost of living and limited access to essential services such as water and electricity.

Déby has promised to allocate greater resources to support the most vulnerable groups, particularly women and children, while also prioritizing efforts to drive industrialization, foster private sector growth, and enhance security measures.

Chad's election represents a worthy milestone for countries in West and Central Africa, a region that has been striving to move away from its reputation as a "coup belt."