N’DJAMENA (Reuters) – According to the government commission that organized the referendum, the people of Chad have voted in favor of a new constitution that critics suggest may strengthen the power of junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby. The vote, which took place earlier this month, was approved by 86% of voters with a voter turnout of about 64%.
The Chadian military authorities have stated that the referendum is an important precursor to elections next year, marking a promised return to democratic rule after seizing power in 2021 following the death of former president Idriss Deby in battle with insurgents.
The new constitution keeps Chad as a unitary state, a status it has held since gaining independence. Some opposing groups had been advocating for the creation of a federal state, arguing that it would aid in development.
There were calls from various opposition groups to boycott the vote, citing the junta’s excessive influence over the referendum process.
Initially, Deby had pledged an 18-month transition to elections following his father’s death. However, last year his government adopted resolutions that postponed elections until 2024 and permitted him to run for president in the eventual vote.
(Reporting by Mahamat Ramadane; Writing by Nellie Peyton; Editing by Mark Potter)
