Share!
Gunfire broke out near the presidential residence in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, on Wednesday evening, as tanks and a heavy security presence filled the streets, according to AFP reporters at the scene.
A security source reported that armed assailants had infiltrated the presidential compound’s interior, though authorities have yet to release an official statement.
Roads leading to the presidency were blocked, and tanks were visible throughout the capital. Civilians fled the city center in cars and on motorcycles, while armed police were stationed at various points.
This incident occurred less than two weeks after Chad’s contentious general election, which the government hailed as a critical step towards ending military rule. However, the election was marred by low voter turnout and allegations of fraud from the opposition.
Chad faces ongoing challenges, including recurrent Boko Haram attacks in the Lake Chad region, the termination of a military agreement with France, and accusations of interference in Sudan’s conflict.
Earlier on Wednesday, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Li met with President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno and other top officials.
Chad, a former French colony, was home to France’s final military bases in the Sahel region. However, in November, Chad ended its defense agreements with Paris, calling them “obsolete.” Approximately 1,000 French troops stationed there are now being withdrawn as France reconfigures its military presence in Africa.
Deby, who assumed power in 2021 after his father’s death, has faced accusations of autocratic and repressive governance. Despite being an oil-producing nation, Chad ranks near the bottom of the UN Human Development Index.
In consolidating his power, Deby has restructured the army and sought new strategic alliances, including with Russia and Hungary.
Source: AFP.
No related posts.
