Chad’s interim president, Mahamat Deby, who assumed power following his father’s death, is set to contest the upcoming presidential elections without facing any significant opposition. Deby, a military general, has been at the helm of the central African nation since the demise of his father, Idriss Deby, who was killed in a battle against rebels in 2021.
In the upcoming elections scheduled for May 6, Deby’s main opponent is Succes Masra, who currently serves as the head of the cabinet. However, the absence of a credible opposition candidate suggests that Deby is poised to maintain his grip on power uncontested.
Chad’s political landscape has been marred by controversy and unrest following the fatal shooting of Yaya Dillo, the country’s prominent opposition leader, by security forces in February. With Dillo’s demise, Deby faces minimal resistance in his bid to secure the presidency in the upcoming elections.
As Chad prepares for the electoral process, the lack of formidable opposition raises concerns about the fairness and transparency of the democratic process. Deby’s candidacy without viable challengers underscores the consolidation of power within the ruling establishment, potentially limiting the prospects for genuine political pluralism and democratic governance in the country.