Chad: Further anti-government protests likely nationwide through June amid elevated anti-French sentiment and related protests /update 2

Event

Further anti-government protests are likely nationwide through the end of June. Such actions are likely amid elevated anti-French sentiment following disruptive protests by supporters of the anti-government Wakit Tama movement in N’Djamena May 14.

• Wakit Tama organizers called off a protest march initially scheduled May 28 to demand the departure of the French military from the country after authorities banned the gathering, citing a threat to public order.

• Various civil society organizations and rebel groups, including Le Front pour l'alternance et la concorde au Tchad (FACT), have called for further protests, though no specific dates or locations have been provided.

• Lawyers affiliated with the Ordre des Avocats au Barreau du Tchad have embarked on a strike through June 6 to denounce alleged unlawful arrests of opposition figures following the May 14 protest.

During the May 14 protest, which had been called to demand a return to civilian rule, widespread disruptions occurred, including damage to French company Total’s petrol stations amid rumors that France planned to install new military bases in the country. The protests degenerated into clashes, leaving at least 12 police officers injured.

Security forces will certainly heighten security near popular gathering locations, government buildings, and French-linked entities and businesses. Transport and business disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all gatherings. The potential for clashes with security forces is elevated.

Context

The unrest came amid a regionwide trend of anti-government and anti-French military protests in recent months. Efforts by regional militaries and their French security partners to halt the spread of violent militancy have largely failed, increasing widespread frustration amid local populations.

The anti-government Wakit Tama continues to demand a return to civilian rule, and may escalate protests following the postponement of the national dialogue. The national or reconciliation dialogue aims to gather various political and civil society groups to establish a constitutional framework to hand over power to civilians after democratic elections.

Chad's political and security environment remains unstable following the April 20, 2021, death of longtime President Idriss Deby Itno. The appointment of the late president's son, Mahamat Deby Itno, as the head of the Transitional Military Council (CMT), along with an 18-month transition period, the suspension of the constitution and the National Assembly, sparked nationwide anti-government protests which continue on a regular basis.

Advice

Monitor local media for protest updates. Avoid all demonstrations and potential targets such as government buildings and French-associated businesses. Plan for traffic and business disruptions. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Abide by all official directives. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation.