Chad’s National Assembly has approved constitutional amendments extending presidential terms from five to seven years and abolishing term limits, a move widely seen as consolidating President Mahamat Idriss Déby’s hold on power. The measure, passed almost unanimously with 171 votes in favor, now awaits Senate approval in October. Déby, who assumed power in 2021 after his father’s death and won election in 2024, could now legally remain in office indefinitely. Supporters argue the reforms ensure stability amid regional insecurity, while critics warn they erode democratic accountability and risk entrenching authoritarian rule in a fragile Sahel nation.