During a high-level diplomatic visit to Chad, a deadly attack shattered the calm at the presidential palace.
At a Glance
- An attack in Chad’s presidential palace left 18 assailants dead and six detained.
- President Mahamat Deby Itno was present during the attack but remained unharmed.
- Authorities quickly neutralized the threat.
- The attack coincided with the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
- Occurred shortly after contested and criticized elections in Chad.
Deadly Assault in the Heart of N’Djamena
Eighteen attackers launched an assault on Chad’s presidential palace, resulting in their deaths and the detention of six individuals. The besieged palace, located in N’Djamena, also saw the tragic death of one soldier and left three others wounded. President Mahamat Deby Itno was present at the palace during the violent incursion but was reported safe. The government asserted that the situation was swiftly controlled, ensuring the security of key political figures.
The disturbance erupted while Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi was visiting the central African nation. His presence symbolized China’s significant interests in Chad, given its strategic geopolitical positioning and resource potential. Wang Yi praised Deby for efforts toward reestablishing constitutional order, a sentiment shadowed by the palace attack.
Doubts emerge over deadly incident at Chad's presidential palace | Africanews https://t.co/jpgG2Mcgyq
— africanews (@africanews) January 9, 2025
Political Underpinnings of an Unstable Nation
The attack occurs at a particularly sensitive time for Chad, closely following elections aimed at reinstating democracy. Despite efforts to reestablish a transparent political framework, the main opposition boycotted the elections. This boycott has increased concerns over the outcome’s legitimacy and potential for consolidating Deby Itno’s power. Analysts predict a further drift from democratic norms, exacerbating political instability and unrest.
“The situation is completely under control. There is no fear” – Foreign Affairs Minister Abderaman Koulamallah
Koulamallah described the perpetrators as disorganized, influenced by intoxicants and unlikely to be formal terrorists, dismissing initial rumors of Boko Haram involvement. These assertions highlight the challenges faced by a nation riddled with internal divisions and external pressures.
BREAKING: Heavy gunfire erupts at the presidential palace in Chad's capital – AFP
— BNO News (@BNONews) January 8, 2025
Broader Implications and International Response
Amidst these unstable conditions, China has expressed support for Chad’s government, emphasizing the need for maintaining safety and stability. The withdrawal of about 1,000 French troops following Chad’s termination of defense agreements with France adds another dimension to the complex security puzzle in the region. This reflects a larger trend of Sahelian nations navigating post-colonial legacies and seeking autonomy in foreign policy and defense strategies.
“There were 18 dead and six injured among the attackers and we suffered one death and three injured, one of them seriously” – Chad’s foreign minister and government spokesman Abderaman Koulamallah
The recent unrest is a testament to Chad’s intricacies in balancing internal politics, regional dynamics, and international alliances. The presence of major international players like China indicates the strategic importance of Chad, a nation navigating its priorities amidst local challenges and ambitions on the global stage.
Sources
1. Chad say military foiled armed assault on presidential complex, 19 killed
2. Attack on Chad’s presidential palace leaves 19 dead
