Chad parliament convenes to address pressing security and institutional challenges

The ordinary session of Chad’s Parliament opened today in N’Djamena under the leadership of President Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi. The event was marked by solemn ceremonies and a strong emphasis on national unity, political responsibility, and the strengthening of constitutional rule in Chad.

In a poignant address, President Tchaïmi paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in recent clashes with Boko Haram militants in the Lake Region. He described the moment as one of the most difficult periods for the nation, acknowledging the bravery of the country’s defense and security forces in defending Chad’s territorial integrity.

He also honored the memory of late Deputy Haoua Outman Djame, who passed away on March 26, 2026. Tributes were paid to her unwavering commitment to parliamentary work, her dedication to democratic values, and her tireless efforts in promoting national cohesion. A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of all victims of terrorist and intercommunal violence that has recently shaken Chad.

Key legislative priorities for the session

The Parliament’s agenda is dominated by two critical issues. First, lawmakers will review and revise the internal regulations of the Parliament to align them with the revised Constitution adopted on December 17, 2023. Second, the session will examine the government’s request to extend the state of emergency in the Lake Region by an additional 45 days.

The government initially declared a 21-day state of emergency on May 7, 2026, in response to persistent terrorist threats in the area. The extension is deemed necessary to continue security operations and protect civilians from ongoing threats.

Chad’s growing influence in African diplomacy

The session highlighted Chad’s expanding role on the continent. President Tchaïmi celebrated the appointment of Senator Mariam Mahamat Nour as Vice President of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). He also welcomed the election of Deputy Djidda Mamar Mahamat as the third vice president of the Pan-African Parliament, underscoring Chad’s active participation in regional governance and integration efforts.

Addressing recent allegations from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding security force operations in the Lake Region, Tchaïmi dismissed the claims as a misrepresentation of events. He reaffirmed the Parliament’s full support for President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and the armed forces, who are leading the fight against terrorism.

Urgent calls for peace and reconciliation

The president also raised concerns about recent intercommunal violence in the Dar Tama department, located in the Wadi Fira Region. He called for dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence to prevent further escalation and restore stability in the affected areas.

Tchaïmi concluded by emphasizing the historic responsibility of Chad’s Parliament to confront the nation’s current challenges. He urged lawmakers to work with determination to build a stable, secure, united, and prosperous Chad. With these objectives in mind, the ordinary session of the Parliament of the Republic of Chad was officially declared open.