Chad’s Ruling Junta Appoints Transitional Government

The ruling junta in Chad, led by the son of late Chadian President, Mahamat Idriss Deby, has appointed a transitional government to address international and domestic concerns.

The Transitional Military Council (TMC), chaired by Mahamat and surrounded by 14 generals, is accused by the opposition and civil society of “institutional coup d’état.

But Saleh Kebzabo, the main opponent of Marshal Déby, recognised the new authorities on Sunday and two members of his party, the National Union for Democracy and Renewal (UNDR), were appointed to the posts of Minister of Livestock and Deputy Secretary General of the government.

Another opponent of Idriss Déby Itno, Mahamat Ahmat Alhabo, of the Party for Liberties and Development (PLD), was appointed Minister of Justice.

However, a list announced Sunday evening on state television by the army spokesman, General Azem Bermandoa Agouna shows most of the regal ministries remain in the hands of the Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), which is the party of the late president.

Several former ministers of the last government of Idriss Déby Itno have been reappointed in their previous portfolio or appointed to another ministry.

Spokesman for the last government, Chérif Mahamat Zene is appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs, a position he previously held from 2018 to 2020.

President Mahamat Idriss Déby, has also created a new Ministry of Reconciliation and Dialogue, having recently promised to organise an inclusive dialogue.

The CMT has promised “free and democratic elections” in 18 months but in the meantime, the Transitional Charter provided for the establishment of a transitional government, whose members are appointed and dismissed by the President of the CMT.