The ordinary session of Chad’s Parliament opened in N’Djamena today under the stewardship of President Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi, who delivered a speech underscoring national unity, political accountability, and the strengthening of the rule of law. The gathering, held at the seat of legislative power, reflects a moment of heightened scrutiny as the country navigates persistent security threats and institutional transitions.
Honoring sacrifice and national resilience
Addressing lawmakers, government officials, and dignitaries, the President of Parliament paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Chadian Armed Forces, who have faced repeated attacks by Boko Haram in the Lake Chad region. “These are testing times for our nation,” he declared, emphasizing the heavy toll exacted by the ongoing conflict and the sacrifices made to preserve Chad’s territorial integrity.
A solemn moment of remembrance was also observed for late Deputy Haoua Outman Djame, who passed away on March 26, 2026. Tchaïmi highlighted her unwavering commitment to public service, her pursuit of justice, and her dedication to the values of the Republic.
Critical legislative agendas take center stage
The session’s agenda is dominated by two pivotal issues: the revision of the Parliament’s internal regulations to align with the amended Constitution of December 17, 2023, and the review of the government’s request to extend the state of emergency in the Lake Chad Province.
The government declared a 21-day state of emergency in the region on May 7, 2026, in response to escalating terrorist threats. Now, it seeks an additional 45-day extension to sustain security operations and protect local populations from ongoing insurgent activities.
Parliament’s growing influence on the continental stage
Tchaïmi celebrated recent diplomatic milestones achieved by the Chadian Parliament, including the appointment of Senator Mariam Mahamat Nour as Vice President of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and Deputy Djidda Mamar Mahamat’s election as Third Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament. These developments, he noted, reflect Chad’s rising profile in regional governance and collective security efforts.
Addressing human rights concerns and intercommunal tensions
The President of Parliament firmly rejected recent allegations from the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding incidents involving Chadian security forces and local fishermen in the Lake Chad area. Describing the accusations as “a distorted and inaccurate portrayal of events,” he voiced the Parliament’s full support for President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and the nation’s security apparatus engaged in the fight against terrorism.
He also raised concerns over the intercommunal violence that flared in the Dar Tama department of Wadi Fira Province, calling for dialogue, reconciliation, and social cohesion to prevent further escalation and restore peace.
Concluding his address, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi urged legislators to rise to the historic responsibility before them. “We must work tirelessly to build a Chad that is secure, united, and prosperous,” he affirmed. With the session officially declared open, the nation’s representatives now face the task of turning these commitments into action.
