Breaking News: Armed Attack on Chad President’s Residence; 19 Killed
Reports are coming in of gunfire and an attempted attack on the residence of Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno. Witnesses have confirmed multiple instances of shooting, with one source indicating that armed men have entered the presidential compound. However, a government minister has dismissed concerns, stating, "Nothing serious, no panic."
An update from French news agency AFP reports that 19 people have been killed, 18 of whom are said to be attackers. The situation is still unfolding, and no further details about the perpetrators have been revealed.
Image: Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno took power after his father was killed in 2021, imposing a military junta to govern the country.
According to several security sources, gunfire was exchanged inside the palace before being contained by security guards. It remains unclear who is behind the attack.
Chad’s Military Ties with France Terminated
Chad, a former French colony, has struggled with poverty and unrest since gaining independence. Recently, it has hosted hundreds of thousands of refugees from neighboring Sudan following the onset of civil war in 2023. The country has also grappled with power struggles and terrorist attacks by groups like Boko Haram.
In 2024, following the death of 40 Chadian soldiers attributed to Boko Haram, the Chadian government accused France of failing to provide support. Consequently, Chad terminated its military agreement with France in November, leading to the withdrawal of French troops by December. "It is time for our country to assert its full sovereignty," said Chadian Foreign Minister Abderaman Kouklamah.
Image: French President Emmanuel Macron and Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno in October 2024.
French President Emmanuel Macron provoked strong reactions from Chad’s president when he stated that "Sahel countries" had ‘forgotten’ to acknowledge France’s role in fighting against jihadist groups. Déby Itno responded, accusing Macron of "contempt for Africa and Africans." Similar calls for the withdrawal of French troops have been made by Senegal and Ivory Coast. In recent years, France has been expelled from Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger following military coups.
President’s Death and Succession
President Idriss Déby Itno died in 2021 following an attack by rebel forces. His son, Mahamat Déby Itno, took power and established a military council to govern. Originally planned to last 18 months, the council’s term was extended by two years in 2022, sparking mass demonstrations. In May 2024, Déby Itno won the presidency with over 60% of the votes, but opposition leaders have accused him of electoral fraud. Parliamentary elections were held in December, aiming to end military rule. Results are expected in late January. Some opposition parties have encouraged a boycott, alleging that the results will be rigged.
