ASSESSMENTS

In Chad, Deby's Death Leaves a Void in the Heart of Africa

Apr 20, 2021 | 21:13 GMT

Four Star General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno (center), son of late Chadian President Idriss Deby Itno, is seen at a polling station in N'djamena on April 11, 2021.

Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno (center), son of late Chadian President Idriss Deby Itno, is seen at a polling station in N'djamena on April 11, 2021.

(MARCO LONGARI/AFP via Getty Images)

The unexpected death of Chad’s president will impede the country’s involvement in regional counterinsurgency operations and may force France to intervene in order to avoid a violent power transition that would exacerbate security crises elsewhere in Africa. The Chadian army announced that long-time President Idriss Deby had been killed on April 19 while visiting the frontlines of the fight against a rebel group that invaded Chad on April 11. The army also announced the suspension of Chad's constitution, the dissolution of the government and National Assembly, and the creation of a transitional military council. Mahamat "Kaka" Idriss Deby, one of the late president's sons, will head the council during an 18-month transitional period. ...

Keep Reading

Register to read three free articles

Proceed to sign up

Register Now

Already have an account?

Sign In