Tensions are rising in Chad as opposition parties and certain civil society groups vow to disrupt Sunday’s local council, regional, and parliamentary elections.
Accusing the government of planning to rig the polls in favor of President Mahamat Idriss Deby, these groups have been touring towns and villages, warning citizens to stay home to avoid potential violence.
In the capital, N’djamena, uncertainty clouds the atmosphere as many Chadians express fears about their safety on election day. Limana Abba, a 23-year-old university student, told VOA via a messaging app that opposition groups have been visiting neighborhoods, discouraging people from participating in the vote.
“I am not sure I or most registered voters will feel safe enough to vote because of the increased threats from opposition and civil society groups,” Limana said.
While civil society organizations in Chad are meant to play a role in governance, human rights, and democratic processes, it remains unclear whether the groups threatening violence meet this definition.
Despite government assurances of safety, concerns persist about whether the military and police can effectively protect voters, candidates, and election officials. Authorities have announced the deployment of security forces to prevent any violence and safeguard civilians and their property.
Political campaigns against the elections have intensified in recent days, with groups aligned against the government holding regular rallies. At a press conference in N’djamena on Thursday, Soumaine Adoum, spokesperson for Wakit Tama, a coalition of over 100 groups, emphasized their opposition to the electoral process.
As Chad approaches election day, the country remains on edge, with fears of violence overshadowing the democratic process.
