Chad Government Assures Stability After Gunfire Near Presidential Palace

Following gunfire near N'Djamena's presidential palace, Chad's government maintains that the situation is under control, with Foreign Minister Koulamallah claiming no serious threat exists despite reported clashes with armed groups.

The government of Chad has attempted to reassure the public regarding the situation in the capital city, N'Djamena, following reported gunfire near the presidential palace. Foreign Minister Abderaman Koulamallah spoke in a video apparently filmed within the palace grounds, describing the incident as a "little occurrence" and asserting that "everything is calm."

Close sources revealed that the violence involved confrontations between state security forces and what has been described as "terrorist elements." News agency AFP reported Koulamallah indicating that eight attackers and one security member lost their lives during the conflict. In the aftermath, tanks were deployed to the area, and access to the presidential palace was restricted.

In the shared video, Koulamallah, who appeared to be with governmental security personnel, emphasized, "Nothing serious has happened," urging citizens to remain calm. He asserted, "We are here and we will defend our country at the price of our blood," and declared that any destabilization attempts have been successfully countered.

The minister disclosed that the attack was instigated by a 24-man commando unit and confirmed that six assailants were wounded along with three members of the security forces. This incident coincided with the recent visit of China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, who engaged with President Mahamat Déby and other key officials, drawing attention to the heightened tensions in this post-colonial African nation.