Chad: Citizens vote in support of new constitution backed by military regime

Chadians have voted in support of a new constitution, which critics believe would pave the way for junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby to consolidate control over the country.

The referendum held earlier this month was supported by 86% of voters, according to the poll organizer.

Report says voter turnout was approximately 64%.

The new constitution will maintain a unitary state, which Chad has had since independence.

Scores of opposition groups campaigned for a boycott of the vote, saying the junta had a heavy influence over the referendum process.

They also called for the creation of a federal state, saying it would help stimulate development.

General Mahamat Idriss Deby, was named transitional leader as head of a military council following his father’s death, and “occupy the functions of the president of the republic” and also serve as head of the armed forces in 2021.

The head of the junta had pledged an 18-month transition to elections but his government last year passed resolutions delaying elections until 2024, therefore giving him the opportunity to stand for president in the future poll.