Chad's Mahamat Deby Confirmed as Winner of Disputed Election

N'Djamena, Chad – Chad's constitutional council has officially confirmed Mahamat Idriss Deby as the winner of the May 6 presidential election, dismissing challenges from two losing candidates. This victory cements Deby's rule and extends his family's decades-long control over the country.

Mahamat Deby seized power in 2021 following the death of his father, President Idriss Deby, who was killed by rebels. Declaring himself interim leader, Deby has now secured 61% of the vote, far ahead of second-placed candidate Succes Masra, who garnered 18.54%, according to the council's announcement.

Opposition leader Succes Masra acknowledged the council's ruling and indicated he would not contest it further. "With the decision of the constitutional council today, we have used all available legal means, and even if we do not accept this decision, there are no other legal means in our judicial architecture," Masra said during a live address on Thursday evening.

Key Western Ally in the Sahel

Chad, an oil-producing nation, is the first of several coup-hit states in West and Central Africa's Sahel region to attempt a return to constitutional rule through elections. Despite internal challenges, Chad remains a crucial Western ally in the fight against al Qaeda and Islamic State-linked insurgencies in the Sahel region. This comes as neighboring countries Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso have expelled Western forces and sought support from Russia instead.

Western Relations Under Strain

However, Chad's relationship with Western powers has been tested recently. Last month, Chad's air force chief requested the U.S. to halt activities at an air base due to issues with paperwork, prompting the U.S. to announce a temporary withdrawal of some troops. This development has kept Washington and former colonial power France on alert regarding Chad's political and military landscape.

Mahamat Deby's confirmation as president marks a significant step in Chad's political journey, highlighting the ongoing complexities and geopolitical dynamics in the Sahel region. As Chad navigates its path forward, the international community will be closely watching its political stability and alliances.