Chad is preparing for its first election since the end of civilian rule, with military ruler Gen Mahamat Déby expected to run for president in the upcoming May poll.
The African nation has been under military rule since the sudden death of former President Idriss Déby in April last year. Idriss Déby had been in power for over 30 years before his death.
Gen Mahamat Déby, who is the son of the late president, took over as interim leader following his father’s death. He has faced criticism and protests from opposition groups who argue that the military should not be in charge of the country’s transition to civilian rule.
Despite this opposition, Gen Mahamat Déby has announced his intention to run in the upcoming election. He is expected to be a strong contender in the race, as the current ruling military council has given him its full backing.
The election in May will be a crucial moment for Chad as it seeks to transition back to civilian rule. Many citizens are hoping for a democratic and transparent process that will lead to a peaceful transfer of power.
As the country prepares for this historic election, all eyes will be on Chad to see how the transition unfolds and whether Gen Mahamat Déby will be able to secure a popular mandate to lead the nation into a new era.
