Chad vote counting underway to usher in civilian rule

rlfg9ao7

Chadian soldiers cast early votes in the presidential election in N’djamena, Chad on May 5, 2024. PHOTO | REUTERS

Vote counting is underway in Chad following Monday’s tense but “peaceful” presidential elections, which could see the first African junta-led states transition to democratic rule.

The presidential contest pitting ten candidates is the last stage of the General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno-led three-year transition, which has been marked by deep political and social tensions in the country since April 2021.