Chad’s interim leader starts election campaign amid controversy

The transitional president of military-led Chad kicked off his campaign on Sunday for the upcoming May presidential election, which he is poised to win after his main rivals were disqualified from the race.

General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who took power after his father’s death in 2021, addressed thousands of supporters gathered in Nation Square in the capital city of N’Djamena.

The city was adorned with his political colors and large portraits, setting the stage for the campaign.

At 40 years old, General Itno has been at the helm of Chad since his father’s passing, promising initially to transfer power back to a civilian government within 18 months.

However, he later extended the transition period by two years and announced his candidacy for the presidency in March.

This move came after 10 candidates, including prominent opponents of the military regime, were barred from running in the election, leaving only former opponent Succes Masra in contention.

Masra, now the prime minister, has faced criticism from the opposition for his perceived collaboration with Itno’s government.

Despite this, he remains in the race and has pledged to conduct a grassroots campaign, meeting with supporters in his neighborhood and planning door-to-door outreach.

The opposition accuses Masra of betraying their cause in pursuit of political power.

The election, scheduled for May 6, comes amid heightened tensions and controversy surrounding the candidacy process.

Itno’s main rival, Yaya Dillo Djerou, was killed during a military assault on his party headquarters in February, further exacerbating the political climate in the country.

As Chad prepares for the upcoming election, observers are closely monitoring the developments and potential implications for the country’s future.

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