2024-03-12 08:32:20
This is an announcement that has the effect of a bomb in Chad: the government has decided to make water and electricity free for all households, from March 1 to December 31, 2024. A shock measure, which raises as many hopes as questions about its feasibility and its real motivations, as crucial electoral deadlines approach.
A poisoned chalice for public service companies? ????☠️
It was through its Minister of Finance, Tahir Hamit Nguilin, that the Chadian government announced this unprecedented measure. The State undertakes to cover not only household water consumption billed by the Société Tchadienne des Eaux (STE) and the Water Management Committees, but also to settle all unpaid debts of individuals. towards these organizations. A colossal commitment, which arouses the disbelief of economic observers. “This is pure deception! “, protests an Internet user on 237online.com. “How will the companies that provide water and electricity survive? »
Miraculous financing or a bluff? ????????
Faced with these questions, the government wants to be reassuring. This free measure would be made possible by funding provided for in the Finance Act and agreements with partners. But many question the reality and sustainability of these funds. “Why only give for a period? “, asks another Internet user. “It’s the election campaign. Afterwards, the population will pay the high price”. Skepticism fueled by the lack of transparency on the financial arrangements announced and the possible compensation for these agreements.
An electoral measure that poorly hides its ulterior motives ????️????
Because beyond the doubts about its economic feasibility, it is the political motivation of this decision that is of concern. A few months before major electoral deadlines, it is difficult not to see this as an attempt to seduce the electorate, in defiance of budgetary realities and the imperatives of good management. A short-sighted strategy, which risks turning against the power in place if the promises are not kept or if the economic consequences prove disastrous.
Behind the promises, the real challenges of access to water in Chad ????????????
Because beyond the announcement effect, this free measure in no way resolves the structural challenges of access to water in Chad. With an access rate to drinking water of only 50% according to the World Bank, the country faces an immense infrastructure and governance challenge. Rather than one-off gifts, it is a real Marshall plan for water that Chad needs, with massive investments in networks, transparent management and fair and sustainable pricing.
Because it must be remembered: nothing is ever truly free. Any free measure has a cost, which must be borne by someone, whether it is the State, businesses or taxpayers. And experience has shown that public services “ free » often end up deteriorating due to lack of means to maintain and develop them. This is the paradox of these electoral measures: by wanting to temporarily relieve households, they risk ultimately condemning the quality and sustainability of the public service.
So, free water and electricity in Chad: miracle or mirage? Only the future will tell us. But one thing is certain: Chadians must not let themselves be blinded by these short-term promises. The country needs a real water and energy policy, with sustainable investments, rigorous management and a long-term vision. And it is on this ground that the candidates should be judged.
As always, 237online.com, your citizen media, will continue to follow this burning issue with the greatest vigilance. With in-depth analyses, field testimonies and expert forums, we will be at your side to decipher the issues and challenges of this measure, which is as spectacular as it is controversial. Because access to water and energy is a fundamental right, which must not be sacrificed on the altar of political calculations.