Non-permanent Members of Chad's National Transitional Council Sworn In

On April 23, 2023, the non-permanent members of Chad's National Transitional Council (CNT) were sworn in, marking a significant step in the country's ongoing political transition. The CNT, also known as the Conseil National de Transition in French, is tasked with overseeing the transition process following the death of President Idriss Déby Itno in 2021.

The swearing-in ceremony took place amidst preparations for the upcoming presidential elections, scheduled for May 6, 2024. Mahamat Idriss Déby, the transitional president and son of the late Idriss Déby Itno, is widely expected to win the election, which would bring an end to the three-year transition period.

However, concerns have been raised about the legitimacy of the electoral process, with the transitional government taking steps to ensure Mahamat Déby's continued grip on power. These steps include the composition of electoral institutions, the approval of presidential candidates, and campaign strategies.

The opposition has called for a boycott of the elections, disputing the legitimacy of the polls. Some voters may choose to abstain from participating in the election altogether. Despite these concerns, the qualified candidates, including Mahamat Déby and his Prime Minister, Succès Masra, have focused their campaign promises on improving living conditions, education, and governance in Chad.

Mahamat Déby's candidacy is backed by a broad coalition, and he is expected to secure the majority of votes, particularly from the northern region of the country. In contrast, his main opponent, Succès Masra, has struggled to campaign independently from the transitional government. The votes from the southern region may be divided among the other candidates.

Why this matters: The swearing-in of the non-permanent members of Chad's National Transitional Council and the upcoming presidential elections have significant implications for the country's future. The outcome of the elections will determine whether Chad can successfully transition to a more democratic system or if the country will continue to be governed by a military-backed regime.

As Chad moves closer to the presidential elections, the international community will be closely monitoring the process to ensure that it is free, fair, and transparent. The success of the transition process will have far-reaching consequences for the stability and development of the country and the wider Sahel region.

Key Takeaways

• Chad's National Transitional Council sworn in, overseeing political transition.
• Presidential elections scheduled for May 2024, Mahamat Déby expected to win.
• Opposition calls for election boycott, concerns over electoral process legitimacy.
• Mahamat Déby's candidacy backed by coalition, Succès Masra struggles to campaign.
• Outcome of elections will determine Chad's transition to democracy or military rule.