Chad: National Assembly approves transition to unlimited seven-year presidential term
The Chadian National Assembly adopted a constitutional amendment on Monday, September 15, extending the presidential term from five to seven years, without setting any limit on the number of possible renewals.
Presented by the ruling Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), the bill was approved by 171 deputies, with only one dissenting vote and no abstentions. The reform must now be examined by the Senate, before a final vote in Congress scheduled for October 13, 2025, where a three-fifths majority will be required for definitive adoption.
In addition to extending the presidential term and removing any reelection limit, the proposed reform includes:
- the creation of a Vice-Prime Minister position,
- the extension of deputies’ terms from five to six years,
- the lifting of immunity for government members regarding economic and financial crimes committed in the exercise of their duties, making them accountable before ordinary courts.
The President of the National Assembly, Ali Kolotou, clarified that this vote represents “a consideration” rather than an immediate amendment to the Chadian Constitution of December 29, 2023.
