New York, September 8, 2023 – Interim President of Chad, Mahamat Idriss Deby, engaged in a critical discussion with the U.S. envoy to the United Nations regarding the obstacles faced in conducting forthcoming elections, the envoy revealed on Thursday.
The backdrop to this conversation traces back to 2021 when military leaders in Chad pledged an 18-month transition period to facilitate elections after Mahamat Idriss Deby assumed power following the demise of his father, President Idriss Deby, on the battlefield during a clash with insurgents. The passing of President Idriss Deby marked the conclusion of his decades-long rule.
However, in a surprising turn of events, the Chadian government extended the timeline, deferring the elections until October 2024. This decision incited widespread protests, which regrettably resulted in the loss of numerous civilian lives.
“We did talk about the timeline, and the President assured me of his unwavering commitment to advancing the transition. We engaged in a discussion about the formidable challenges impeding the progression of this process,” stated U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield.
The extended delay in holding elections in Chad has raised concerns both domestically and internationally, with stakeholders closely monitoring the situation as the nation navigates a complex path toward a democratic future.
