22 May 2024 | 09:14 PM UTC
Chad: Heightened security likely in N'Djamena before and during May 23 presidential inauguration
Increased security likely in N'Djamena, Chad, before and during May 23 presidential inauguration; mayor calls for gathering on major route.
Authorities will likely enforce heightened security measures in parts of N'Djamena before and during the presidential inauguration of Mahamat Idriss Deby on May 23, including in the vicinity of the capital's Palace of Arts and Culture (Palais des Arts et de la Culture), where the inauguration ceremonies are scheduled to take place. Guests will begin to arrive at the venue at 07:00, and the event is slated to end at around 12:00. The mayor of N'Djamena has encouraged individuals to gather en masse along Boulevard Tombalbaye to the Palace of Arts and Culture from 06:30 to welcome various heads of state and foreign delegations. Thousands of people may show up for the gathering along Boulevard Tombalbaye and the inauguration.
While celebratory gunfire is common on such occasions in Chad, officials have previously prohibited the discharge of firearms during official events and may similarly ban celebratory gunfire amid the inauguration. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely. Political demonstrations may materialize before, amid, and following the inauguration and cause localized transport disruptions. Police may be quick to use force to disperse any such gatherings that occur; clashes between demonstrators and security forces cannot be ruled out.
Exercise caution while operating in Chad. Avoid all gatherings and election-related activities, including the presidential inauguration, as well as concentrations of security forces. Exercise particular vigilance near police stations and government buildings. If clashes break out, leave the area immediately and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Consult with trusted local sources for updated information on security restrictions, road conditions, and possible demonstrations; activist groups may not announce protests in advance. Heed the advice of local authorities. Remain polite and cooperative if stopped and questioned by law enforcement personnel. Seek immediate shelter if there is gunfire.
The polls took place on May 6, with Transitional President Deby defeating opposition candidate and Prime Minister Succes Masra with a sufficient margin to avoid a second-round runoff. The election marked the end of the three-year transitional period led by Deby. Preliminary election results were not expected until May 21, prompting some oppositionists to suspect fraud.
The National Election Management Agency (ANGE) announced Deby as the winner of the polls, receiving 61 percent of the vote, on May 9. Prime Minister Masra challenged the outcome of the nation's presidential election, filing a petition with the Constitutional Council demanding that the May 6 election be annulled. He later tendered his resignation as prime minister on May 22.
