Chad’s national assembly has voted to change the constitution. The new law extends the presidential term from five to seven years. It also removes limits on how many times a president can run for office.
This means President Mahamat Idriss Deby can remain in power for as long as he chooses.
How Deby Came to Power
Mahamat Idriss Deby took over leadership in 2021. His father, Idriss Deby, had ruled the country for three decades before he was killed while visiting troops fighting militias.
After three years of military rule, Chad held elections in May 2024. Deby declared victory in a disputed vote. Later, parliamentary elections in December gave his party a massive majority.
Parliament’s Decision
On September 15, 2025, the national assembly approved the reforms. Out of 172 votes, 171 supported the changes, while only one member abstained. No one voted against.
Assembly President Ali Kolotou Tchaimi confirmed the results. The next step is a Senate vote, scheduled for October 13, 2025. If the Senate agrees, Deby will sign the new constitution into law.
Concerns About Power
Experts warn that these changes could tighten the president’s grip on power. Remadji Hoinathy, a senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies, said the reforms are almost certain to pass.
“There are fewer and fewer dissenting voices,” he explained. “This clearly opens the possibility for the president and ruling party to establish a long-term stronghold.”
Opposition Under Pressure
Chad’s opposition has struggled in recent years. Succes Masra, a former prime minister and key rival, also claimed victory in the 2024 election. However, he stepped down soon after. In August 2025, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison for allegedly inciting violence.
What It Means
Chad was the first junta-led country in West and Central Africa to hold elections after a wave of coups. But many observers fear these reforms show a step back from democracy.
With almost full control of parliament and little opposition, President Deby is set to extend his rule for many years.
