The Chadian army says it has killed “several hundred” rebels in the west of the country in the past two days. Last month, the recently re-elected president Déby was still in that region fatally injured when visiting the front line. Six people were reported dead on the side of the army.
From military council, who has ruled the country since Déby’s death, claims to have repulsed a rebel offensive near the western village of Nokou. “The search for the last fugitives continues,” said the military. Several dozen members of the Fact rebel group from northern Libya are said to have been captured.
The council of generals is headed by Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, the son of the killed president. The army has announced a transition period of 18 months. After that, the intention is to organize “free, democratic elections”, but the rebels reject Déby’s authority and continue the fight in the desert.
Hundreds of protesters arrested
The Chadian opposition also rejects the military council and speaks of a coup. In the Central African country, more than 700 people have been arrested in anti-government protests, according to the United Nations. According to eyewitnesses, there was live fire on demonstrators in the two largest cities in the country, N’Djamena and Moundou on Tuesday.
The conflict in Chad could have major consequences for the region. Chad has an important role in the international fight against jihadists in the Sahel region.
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