A deadly assault on Chad’s presidential complex on Wednesday night left at least 19 people dead, escalating concerns about the nation’s political and security instability. Heavily armed attackers stormed the palace in N’Djamena, prompting a fierce gun battle with security forces.
Government officials reported that 18 attackers were killed along with one member of the security forces, while three others were injured. Six suspects were arrested, though their identities remain undisclosed. President Mahamat Idriss Deby was inside the palace during the attack, which coincided with a state visit from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Conflicting Theories Behind the Attack
Authorities have downplayed connections to Boko Haram or organized rebel groups, describing the assailants as rogue individuals. However, analysts speculate the involvement of armed factions, including the Front for Change and Concord in Chad (FACT) or other groups with a history of challenging Deby’s rule.
The attack follows Chad’s controversial expulsion of French troops in December, raising concerns about a security vacuum. France, previously a key ally, had maintained a military presence in Chad for decades.
Rising Tensions in Chad
The assault comes weeks after contested parliamentary elections boycotted by opposition groups accusing Deby’s government of authoritarianism. Deby, who took power in 2021 after his father’s death, has faced criticism for alleged crackdowns on dissent and accusations of election fraud.
Analysts warn that Chad’s fragile state and diminishing international support could leave it vulnerable to further attacks and unrest.