An attack on the presidential palace in N’Djamena on January 8 has been described as an assassination attempt by Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno. Speaking on January 10, President Deby credited the swift response of the Presidential Guard for neutralizing the attackers.
“The attackers of this futile attempt aimed to eliminate me, but they were eliminated by the bravery, vigilance, and courage of the Presidential Guard,” Deby stated. He also characterized the incident as an “attempt at destabilization.”
According to the Chadian prosecution, the attack occurred at approximately 7:45 PM local time. A group of 24 individuals in a single vehicle staged a breakdown near one of the entrances to the presidential palace. Armed with knives, they launched a sudden assault on guards stationed at the entrance.
The security forces responded decisively, killing 18 attackers and injuring six others. Tragically, one Presidential Guard member lost their life in the confrontation, while three others sustained injuries, two of them serious.
The attackers’ motives and affiliations remain under investigation, but officials have hinted at broader implications of political instability. Chad has faced challenges in maintaining security since President Deby assumed power in April 2021 following the death of his father, Idriss Deby, who ruled the country for three decades.
This incident underscores ongoing security vulnerabilities in Chad, a nation grappling with internal conflicts and regional instability. President Deby’s administration has vowed to intensify efforts to safeguard the country’s institutions and prevent further destabilization attempts.
The attack serves as a reminder of the persistent threats facing Chad’s leadership and highlights the critical need for vigilance in protecting national sovereignty. Authorities are expected to provide updates as investigations progress.
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