The Chadian ambassador to the Russian Federation, Adam Bechir Mahamoud, announced that the government has imposed a curfew in the capital, Ndjamena. This information was reported by RIA News. The ambassador explained that the curfew aims to safeguard the public and reduce the risk of disorder as afternoon and evening hours pass. He emphasized that the move is a protective measure rather than an assertion of control over the situation, and he noted that the curfew applies to key urban zones where large crowds often gather. [RIA News]
According to him, the curfew was put in place in Ndjamena to shield residents from potential violence and to maintain essential public order during a period of heightened tension. The practical effect, he added, would be to limit movement in and out of central districts and to facilitate a more orderly response by security forces. He underscored that this is a precautionary step intended to preserve life and property while authorities assess the evolving scenario. [RIA News]
Earlier remarks from the ambassador indicated that there is no coup underway in Chad and that recent events should not be misconstrued as part of such a development. He stressed that the current disruptions do not reflect a change in the state’s constitutional framework and urged observers to distinguish between isolated incidents and a broader constitutional crisis. [RIA News]
He also described the security measures that would be deployed, including barriers and checkpoints designed to block access to critical infrastructure and administrative facilities. The strategy focuses on maintaining continuity in government services while deterring incidents at important sites such as government offices and key financial institutions. [RIA News]
Earlier reports described a group of Chadian soldiers moving toward the presidential palace in Ndjamena, signaling a tense moment on the ground. The scene involved significant military presence and the sound of heavy equipment, echoing through the capital as troops positioned themselves in anticipation of possible developments. [RIA News]
Residents and observers reported gunfire and the continued movement of heavy military hardware around Ndjamena throughout the day. Government forces were said to have conducted operations at the headquarters of the opposition Socialist Party Without Borders, led by Yaya Dillo, intensifying the sense of uncertainty in the capital. The authorities asserted that security actions were necessary to prevent further escalation, while opposition members described the moves as a crackdown. [RIA News]
The mounting tensions unfold ahead of Chad’s upcoming elections, with the first round scheduled for May 6, 2024, a date that has intensified political activity and public interest. Parties and candidates have been maneuvering to secure support and voter turnout, amid security measures and public warnings from officials about maintaining peace and order during the electoral period. [RIA News]
Meanwhile, neighboring Niger has faced its own security discussions, and there have been accusations concerning foreign involvement in regional stability efforts. In Chad’s context, observers are watching closely for any external reactions or regional dynamics that could influence the trajectory of the events at hand. [RIA News]