Violent clashes have erupted in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, raising concerns as the country prepares for upcoming presidential elections scheduled for October. The unrest unfolded following a deadly attack on the country’s internal security agency, sparking a chain of events that have heightened tensions across the nation.
Security forces have surrounded the headquarters of the Socialist Party Without Borders (PSF) after accusing elements of the main opposition party of launching the attack on the security agency. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing security operations and disruptions to internet and telephone services reported in various parts of the country.
Mahamat Idriss “Kaka” Déby Itno (Arabic: محمد إدريس ديبي إتنو; born 4 April 1984) is a Chadian four-star general serving as the transitional president of Chad. He gained power as the president of the Transitional Military Council on 20 April 2021 when his father, the late Chadian President Idriss Déby, died in action while commanding troops in the Northern Chad offensive. He previously served as the second in-command of the military for the Chadian Intervention in Northern Mali (FATIM).
He is the nominee of the Patriotic Salvation Movement in the 2024 Chadian presidential election. Source: Wikipedia
The government has attributed the attack to activists from the PSF, alleging their involvement in the assault on the National State Security Agency (ANSE) which resulted in several casualties. Additionally, a separate incident involving an assassination attempt against the president of the Supreme Court has further escalated tensions.
However, the PSF has contested the government’s account of events, offering a different narrative. According to the party’s general secretary, the deaths near the security agency occurred when soldiers opened fire at a group of party members. He also claimed that a party member involved in the incident had been shot dead earlier, leading to further violence when party members and relatives attempted to retrieve the body.
As the situation unfolds, there are concerns about potential divisions within the security forces and the wider implications of the unrest for Chad’s political landscape. Internet connectivity in the country has been disrupted following the reported attack on the security agency headquarters, further complicating the situation.
Chad’s Supreme Court recently approved a vote on a new constitution, raising criticisms about potential consolidation of power under junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby. Against the backdrop of ongoing political turbulence, there are fears of democratic backsliding in the region, as Chad grapples with instability and uncertainty in the lead-up to the elections.
The international community, including diplomatic missions and organisations, is closely monitoring the evolving situation in Chad, underscoring the importance of stability and democratic processes in the region.
As the situation continues to unfold, Chad faces significant challenges in navigating political tensions and ensuring a peaceful transition of power in the upcoming elections. The events unfolding in N’Djamena underscore the fragile nature of democracy in Chad and the broader implications for peace and stability in the region
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