Armed attack on Chad’s presidential complex leaves 19 dead
3 min read
On Wednesday evening, a violent attack took place in Chad, resulting in at least 19 deaths after an attempted raid on the presidential complex in the capital, N’Djamena. Security forces quickly intervened to thwart the assailants, leaving 18 of the 24 attackers dead, while one security officer also lost his life in the confrontation. The Chadian government confirmed that the situation was under control and reassured citizens of the president’s safety.
The attack occurred as armed fighters attempted to storm the presidential office. Residents near the complex reported hearing sustained gunfire for several minutes as the security forces engaged the attackers. In the aftermath, the government reported that 18 of the assailants were killed, while six others were injured. Additionally, one security officer died, and three others sustained injuries, one of them serious.
Chad’s Foreign Minister and government spokesperson, Abderaman Koulamallah, appeared in a video shortly after the attack, flanked by soldiers and holding a firearm. In his message, Koulamallah reassured the public, declaring that the situation was “entirely under control” and that the attempt to destabilize the government had failed. “The attack was thwarted,” he stated, emphasizing that the president was being well protected by the military.
The timing of the attack was particularly notable as it occurred just hours after a visit by China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Earlier in the day, Wang Yi had met with President Mahamat Idriss Deby and other key officials in Chad. Koulamallah confirmed that President Deby was at the presidential complex during the assault but was unharmed.
The attack raised concerns about the security situation in Chad, a country with a history of political instability and military coups. Local residents expressed anxiety over the incident, and some noted the presence of military vehicles and heavily armed troops stationed throughout N’Djamena. Security forces were deployed to maintain order, with patrols surrounding the presidential palace and throughout the city.
The attack also comes on the heels of recent political developments in Chad. About a week before this assault, the country held parliamentary elections aimed at restoring democracy. However, the elections were boycotted by the opposition, and the results are still awaited. Analysts suggest that the outcome of the vote may further consolidate President Mahamat Deby Itno’s hold on power.
Mahamat Deby Itno took over as leader of Chad following the death of his father, Idriss Deby, who ruled the country for three decades. The younger Deby assumed power in 2021 during a period of conflict with rebels. Despite his rise to power, his election last year was marred by accusations of fraud and lack of transparency, with international observers questioning the legitimacy of the vote.
The government’s quick response to Wednesday’s attack is seen as a sign of the military’s continued grip on power in Chad, but the incident also highlights the persistent tensions and security challenges facing the nation. While the government insists that the situation is now under control, questions remain about the stability of Chad’s political system and the threat of further unrest. Many continue to watch closely, as the government navigates these turbulent times and as President Mahamat Deby Itno seeks to solidify his position after the recent election.
This violent assault on the presidential complex not only underscores the security concerns in Chad but also signals potential unrest in a region frequently beset by military coups and political upheaval. The government’s commitment to protecting the president is clear, but the attack has left many wondering whether Chad’s fragile political landscape can withstand the pressure of internal and external challenges.
About The Author
