Chadians have overwhelmingly voted in favor of a new constitution, which has raised concerns among critics who believe it could further consolidate the power of junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby.

According to the government commission responsible for organizing the referendum, 86% of voters approved the new constitution. The voter turnout was reported to be approximately 64%.

The military authorities in Chad view this referendum as a crucial step towards holding elections next year, marking a promised return to democratic governance after seizing power in 2021 following the death of former president Idriss Deby on the battlefield during a conflict with insurgents.

The newly approved constitution will maintain Chad as a unitary state, a status it has held since gaining independence. However, some opponents of the constitution had advocated for the creation of a federal state, arguing that it would promote development.

Despite the high approval rate, several opposition groups had called for a boycott of the vote, citing concerns over the junta’s excessive control over the referendum process.

Initially, Deby had pledged an 18-month transition period leading to elections following his father’s demise. However, his government passed resolutions last year that postponed the elections until 2024 and granted him the opportunity to run for president in the eventual vote.

Reuters