Chad holds presidential election on Monday meant to end three years of military administration and usher in democracy, but instead it appears likely to solidify the interim president’s grip on power.

General Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno who seized power in 2021, suspended the constitution, and was installed as the president of the Transitional Military Council is the favourite among the 10 candidates.

The 40-year-old became the central African nation’s leader when his father, who had repressively ruled Chad since 1990, died from wounds suffered on the front line as he visited troops in the north battling rebels.

The vast country of around 19 million people has never experienced a peaceful transfer of power since its independence from its former colonial power France in 1960.

Mr Déby promised that his presidency was only a temporary placeholder until Chad had transitioned to a new democratic government.

But he crushed opposition demonstrations, voters and observers alike doubt that the election will be fair.

The politics of Chad take place in a framework of a presidential republic, whereby the president of Chad is both head of state and head of government.

Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and parliament.

The president is elected for a five-year term by the people.

The National Assembly has 155 members, elected for a four-year term in 25 single-member constituencies and 34 multi-member constituencies.

(dpa/NAN)