Chad is set to undergo a crucial constitutional referendum this Sunday, a move aimed at paving the way for elections in the aftermath of the 2021 coup that saw the military take control following the death of President Idriss Deby on the battlefield. However, the proposed new constitution appears unlikely to bridge the profound rifts between the ruling junta and opposing factions.
The military authorities emphasize the significance of the vote as a vital precursor to the promised return to democratic governance. The proposed constitutional changes include the establishment of autonomous communities with local assemblies and councils of traditional chiefdoms, among other alterations.
Despite these intentions, a portion of the political opposition and rebel groups is calling for a “No” vote, while others have opted to boycott the referendum altogether. Their concerns center around doubts regarding the independence of the election commission and a perceived lack of engagement with their desires, particularly regarding federalization.
As Chad stands at this critical juncture, the nation grapples with the complexities of its political landscape, where the quest for democratic restoration is entangled with disputes over the proposed constitutional framework. The outcome of this referendum will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of Chad’s political future, with both supporters and critics closely watching the developments.
