Idriss Deby, President of Chad. His son Mahamat Devi will be the candidate for the next presidential vote.
FFor the past 30 years, one name has always appeared on the Chadian presidential ballot and has always been announced as the winner. That's Debi.
First up was Idris Deby. Mahamat Devi will be elected in the May 6 election.
After Idriss Deby died fighting rebels in April 2021, the presidency was passed to his son Mahamat, who is now trying to legitimize his rule. Nine other candidates are challenging him. Nevertheless, it is very likely that he will win, ignoring his critics and opponents.
A key figure among them was his cousin Yaya Dilo, who was killed on February 28 in a clash between security forces and members of the Party Without Borders. State security officials accused Dilo of leading the attack on the intelligence agency's headquarters in N'Djamena, a charge he denied.
Mahamat Deby insisted that Dilo was not intentionally assassinated and said he was open to an international investigation. Dilo also ran against the late president in the 2021 election and was a thorn in the side of Deby. At the time, he survived a raid on his home by security forces, but his mother and son and at least five other people were killed.
The intimidation and criticism that dogged the elder Deby's rule remain prevalent in Chad. The country is divided, with rebel groups revolting from neighboring countries and political opponents facing constant threats and intimidation. The upcoming election is stirring up a complex mix of passion, hope, doubt, and cynicism.
Mahamat's only viable rival is his prime minister, Success Masra, who joined the junta this year after leading deadly protests against it in October 2022.
For some, his decision to join Deby's government diminished his status as one of the few bulwarks against the political status quo. But it is also a practical way to steer elections by controlling the government tasked with organizing them.
Masra's candidacy is gaining support from Chad's youth. The economist-turned-Transformers Party leader is pinning his hopes on a new generation of political leaders who will promote transparency, democratic governance and socio-economic development. He also pledged to fight corruption, promote education and employment, and strengthen national unity.
International observers and human rights groups are monitoring the electoral process, concerned about rights violations and political manipulation. Nevertheless, many Chadians will turn out to the polling stations on May 6 to make their voices heard, even as the state prepares to launch a new Déby.
This article first appeared in The Continent, a pan-African weekly newspaper produced in partnership with the Mail & Guardian. Designed to be read and shared on WhatsApp.Download your free copy here