Protests In Chad Against Junta Leave Dozens Dead

Protesters are angered by the country's continued military rule after junta leader Mahamat Idriss Deby was recently sworn in as president for a second time. Prime Minister Saleh Kebzabo said about 50 people were killed in the demonstrations, which occurred on the date when the military originally promised it would cede power to civilians.

Schools and universities were shut during the uprising, with opposition groups such as the Transformers party lamenting the crackdown. Several parts of capital city N'Djamena were barricaded, with police reportedly firing smoke and tear gas at protesters.

African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat, who earlier served as Chadian prime minister, condemned the "repression of demonstrations" by the junta.

France has also condemned the crackdown and denied claims that it was involved in the repression. The UN has called for an investigation into the deaths.

Deby came to power in April 2021 and originally vowed a restoration of civilian rule in 18 months. Earlier this month, he reneged on his promise, delaying elections to October 2024, becoming the country's "transitional" president.