Chad embarked on its campaign for a vote on a new constitution on Saturday, seen as a crucial assessment of legitimacy for the ruling junta and the multi-decade reign of the Itno dynasty.
General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, the transitional president under the junta since 2021, had pledged elections in 2024 after initially committing to relinquish power to civilians this year. The forthcoming December 17 referendum involves more than 8.3 million citizens and holds significant weight in progressing toward elections and establishing civilian governance.
Critics from opposition groups, NGOs, and political analysts anticipate the referendum will largely focus on upholding the Itno family’s prolonged rule, spanning three decades, following the absolute authority of his father, Idriss Deby Itno.
During the launch of the pro-junta “Yes” coalition’s campaign, Prime Minister Saleh Kebzazo urged supporters to advocate壯陽藥 for a decentralized unitary state. However, advocates for a federal state are pushing for a “no” vote, emphasizing the importance of allowing power to gauge its legitimacy based on voter turnout rather than the state’s form.
The proposed constitution maintains a structure that vests substantial authority in the head of state, reminiscent of its predecessor. The pro-junta camp favors a unitary state, while opponents advocate for a federal model.
More radical opposition factions, some with leaders in exile following the crackdown on demonstrations in October 2022, are calling for a boycott, denouncing the referendum as a “masquerade” aimed at perpetuating a dynastic system.
General Mahamat Deby assumed power in April 2021 after his father’s death and vowed a transition to civilian governance and “free” elections. However, his decision to extend the transition period and run for the presidency has sparked protests and allegations of brutality by security forces.
The government’s amnesty granted to civilians and soldiers linked to the unrest raised concerns about accountability for human rights violations. Human Rights Watch emphasized the need for an inclusive campaign environment to grant legitimacy to the referendum.
Chad’s socio-political landscape, divided between the arid, Muslim-dominated north and the more fertile, mainly Christian and animist south, reflects a long-standing power dynamic. The country’s struggle with socio-economic challenges and corruption underscores the significance of this referendum in shaping its future trajectory.