Chad is poised to hold a pivotal presidential election on Monday, marking the conclusion of three years under military rule and the commencement of a transition towards democratic governance.
General Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, who assumed power in 2021 following the suspension of the constitution and the establishment of the Transitional Military Council, emerges as the leading contender among the 10 candidates vying for the presidency.
Déby, aged 40, ascended to leadership following the passing of his father, who had governed Chad since 1990. His rise occurred amidst ongoing conflict in the northern regions against rebel factions.
With a population of approximately 19 million, Chad has yet to witness a peaceful transfer of power since gaining independence from France in 1960.
Initially, Déby pledged that his presidency would serve as a temporary measure to facilitate the transition to a democratically-elected government. However, concerns persist regarding the fairness and transparency of the upcoming election, particularly in light of recent crackdowns on opposition demonstrations.
