Chad Presidential election begins; Masra likely to win
N’djamena, Chad - In the leadup to Chad’s presidential election, candidates delivered their final campaign messages on Saturday, marking the nation’s first vote since the passing of long-time leader Idriss Deby, Africanews reported.
Among the prominent contenders is Succes Masra, the current prime minister of the interim government. Addressing supporters in the capital, N’djamena, Masra, a former executive of the African Development Bank, pledged a brighter future for the country’s youth, emphasising job creation as a central focus.
His platform includes a bold five-year plan aimed at generating 200,000 jobs, evenly distributed between the private and public sectors, forming what he calls a ‘minimum package of dignity’. Masra’s grassroots movement also pledges to tackle pressing issues like access to essential services such as electricity, water, and ensuring security for all citizens, as reported by Africanews.
“We aspire to a nation of peace and reconciliation, where victory is not merely partisan, but a collective triumph for all Chadians,” Masra asserted, advocating for hope and progress over past challenges.
Ahead of the polls, Masra urged his supporters to remain vigilant throughout the electoral process, emphasising the importance of transparent and fair elections.
Elsewhere in the city, General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, commonly known as ‘MIDI’, the country’s interim president, addressed his supporters. Deby ascended to power three years ago following the demise of his father, Idriss Deby, who ruled Chad with an iron fist for three decades. Despite initially promising elections within 18 months, Deby’s government postponed the vote, allowing him to participate as a presidential candidate. He enjoys widespread support from a diverse coalition of political parties and civil society organisations, with many anticipating his victory.
“Our candidate’s success is assured, unmatched by any other contender,” declared supporter Abakar Bishala.