Chad Government Assures Stability Amid Gunfire in N'Djamena

The Chadian government's response to recent gunfire in the capital emphasizes stability despite reports of clashes, with officials asserting that the situation remains under control.

Following alarming reports of gunfire near the presidential palace in Chad's capital, N'Djamena, the government has sought to reassure the public about the situation's stability. Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah addressed the incident through a video, stating that there had been a "little incident" and confirming that "everything is calm."

Close sources within the administration indicated that clashes transpired between security forces and what they referred to as "terrorist elements." According to the French news agency AFP, Koulamallah reported the death of 18 attackers along with one security personnel.

Chad, a landlocked nation in northern-central Africa, has experienced recurring instability since its independence from France in 1960. The country is currently governed by President Mahamat Déby, who rose to power in 2021 following the death of his predecessor, Idriss Déby, during a battle with rebels.

In the aftermath of the skirmish, military tanks were seen deploying in the vicinity of the palace while all surrounding roads were shut down to the public. In his addressed video, Koulamallah is shown with armed forces, expressing confidence in their ability to protect the nation. "Nothing serious has happened," he remarked, defiantly stating, "We are here and we will defend our country at the price of our blood. Be calm." He characterized the attempted destabilization as thwarted.

The Minister disclosed that a small commando unit comprised of 24 individuals led the assault, with six attackers sustaining injuries, alongside three government forces also injured. The unrest followed a diplomatic visit from China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, who recently conferred with President Déby and key officials.

This incident comes amidst a backdrop of political change in Chad, as the government recently organized parliamentary elections they hailed as the first step toward transitioning from military to civilian governance. However, opposition groups discouraged participation, citing concerns related to electoral integrity.

In a significant shift in international relations, Chad announced the end of a military cooperation agreement with France last month. Koulamallah noted this move would allow Chad to "assert its full sovereignty." This development aligns with the ongoing wave of military coups across the region, often referred to as the "Coup Belt," which has seen similar political upheaval recently in Mali, Niger, and Sudan.