Human Rights Watch (HRW) has strongly condemned Chad's recent constitutional amendments which effectively allow President Mahamat Idriss Déby to extend his tenure indefinitely. The changes, described by HRW as a severe threat to both the rule of law and democratic principles in the nation, were finalized in early October amid significant opposition boycotts.

Lewis Mudge, the Central Africa Director for HRW, expressed deep concerns about the amendments, stating, “By removing presidential term limits, Chad’s authorities have dismantled an important safeguard against authoritarianism.” These amendments have not only removed term limits but also expanded the powers of the executive significantly, raising fears about the unchecked authority of the president.

The ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (Mouvement patriotique du salut, MPS), which dominates Chad's National Assembly, pushed through these changes with minimal legislative scrutiny. The amendments also controversially extended the term of a prime minister from five to seven years, renewable indefinitely, and introduced a new vice-prime minister position, which proponents argue will bolster institutional stability.

Critics, however, see these moves as a consolidation of power reminiscent of the regime led by Déby's father, Idriss Déby Itno, who ruled Chad for three decades under a cloud of corruption and violence. The younger Déby assumed power immediately following his father's death in a swift military takeover and has since been criticized for failing to fulfill his promises of reform. His tenure has been marred by allegations of serious human rights abuses, including torture, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on freedom of expression.

Despite Chad being a state party to the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance—which condemns amendments that infringe upon democratic principles—the recent constitutional changes appear to contradict these obligations. There is a growing alarm among human rights advocates and the international community regarding the potential establishment of a new political dynasty in Chad, which could further entrench authoritarian rule.

These developments come as a significant setback for a country already struggling with poverty, inadequate educational systems, and reliance on diminishing oil reserves, all issues that the elder Déby's administration failed to address effectively. The international community continues to watch Chad closely, as these constitutional amendments pose not just a national issue, but a challenge to regional stability and the broader principles of governance in Africa.