Chad is conducting a referendum today, Sunday, on a new constitution that is unlikely to resolve the deep divisions between the ruling military council and opposition groups, which have fueled a political and security crisis in the country. The military authorities described the voting in the referendum as a significant step towards conducting elections next year, as part of a long-standing promise to restore democratic governance after seizing power in 2021 following the death of President Idriss Déby on the battlefield during a conflict with rebels.
Political opponents and rebel groups have called for the new constitution to be rejected or boycotted. They question the independence of the electoral commission and reject the proposed constitution for failing to address their demands for establishing a federal state. A coordinator for groups and individuals willing to accept the proposed constitution stated that it indeed allows for greater independence and would enable Chadians to elect their local representatives and collect taxes in their areas for the first time, describing those who wish to establish a federal state as wanting to divide Chadians into states.
Analysts warn that if the referendum results in approval, it could help solidify the power of military council leader Mahamat Idriss Déby, the late president's son, who has already extended the transition period to democracy. Approximately eight million Chadians have the right to vote, and preliminary results may be announced on December 24.
