Citizens of the African nation of Chad voted in favor of a new constitution Sunday, which critics say could help solidify junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby’s power.
Reuters reported a 64% voter turnout for the referendum held earlier this month, with an overwhelming 86% approval from those who participated.
The country’s military officials underscored the significance of the vote, linking it to next year’s elections. They suggested that the referendum’s outcome could pave the way for the long-anticipated return to democratic governance.
Military authorities took control of the country in 2021 following the death of former president Idriss Deby on the battlefield during a clash with insurgents. a new constitution
Under the newly proposed constitution, Chad will retain its status as a unitary state, a structure it has maintained since gaining independence. However, some opposition figures advocated for the establishment of a federal state, arguing that such a move could potentially stimulate development.
Numerous opposing groups urged a boycott of the vote, expressing concerns that the junta exerted excessive control over the referendum process.
Initially, after his father’s death, Deby had pledged an 18-month transition period leading to elections. However, the government, in the previous year, adopted resolutions to postpone the elections until 2024. This delay not only extends the timeline for elections but also opens the possibility for Deby to contend for the presidency in the eventual vote.
Earlier this year, Chad’s government foiled an attempt to destabilize the country and undermine the constitution.
In the attempt, 11 people, including soldiers and human rights activists were arrested and transferred to the high court in the capital, N’Djamena.
Government spokesperson Aziz Mahamat Saleh said a judicial investigation was opened against the 11 people for undermining the constitutional order, criminal association, illegal possession of firearms and complicity.