Voting has commenced in Chad’s presidential election, marking a significant milestone toward the conclusion of the country’s three-year transition.
The opening of polls experienced delays in some areas, beginning one hour behind schedule. Transitional President Mahamat Déby initiated the process by casting his ballot in the capital, N’Djamena.
Déby expressed pride in fulfilling his commitment to adhere to the deadline for “elections that will signify a return to constitutional order.” He emphasized the importance of Chadian citizens voting in large numbers to select their president.
Amidst the delays, voters patiently waited in long queues, emphasizing their determination to fulfill their civic duty.
With a choice of 10 candidates, including military leader Déby and Prime Minister Succès Masra, approximately eight million people are eligible to vote in this presidential election.
Preliminary results are anticipated by May 21, with the possibility of a second round in June if no clear winner emerges in the initial polls.
