Chad's new constitution is supported by 86% of voters, the National Commission for the Organization of the Constitutional Referendum reported on Sunday.
"The provisional results, which demonstrate a clear victory for Yes, confirming the adoption of the constitutional bill, are a welcome development for the country," Jean Bernard Padare, spokesperson for the ruling MPS party reportedly said.
These are the preliminary results, with the conclusive outcomes expected to be delivered by the Supreme Court on December 28.
The turnout was 63.75%, according to the electoral commission, the media reported.
Moreover, the commission reportedly said that the referendum proceeded without any major issues, except from a few "minor dysfunctions."
The opposition, however, disputed the voting figures and turnout statistics
Chad's citizens voted on a new constitution on December 17, which was a significant milestone toward the elections, promised by the head of the transitional military government, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who came to power after his father, former president of Chad Idriss Deby Itno, passed away in April 2021.
The Chad's constitution, ratified in 2018, states that in the event of the president's demise, the president of the National Assembly is required to assume temporary leadership of the country for a period of 45 to 90 days until a new election is held. The new president promised to restore civilian rule. The transitional period, however, was extended by two years.
The primary matter presented for the referendum was the state structure. Chadians had to decide whether it would be unitary, as the government proposes, the reports revealed.
The new version of the constitution codifies the concepts of a unitary state structure and reinstates the position of prime minister, who is accountable to the parliament. The duration of the presidential term is shortened from six years to five years. It is prohibited for any individual to hold office for more than two consecutive terms. Basic human rights and freedoms are ensured.