By : Lloyd Mahachi 

Multiple gunshots were heard near the presidential palace in Chad’s capital, N’Djamena, on Wednesday evening.

The gunshots sparked fears about the country’s security. The incident occurred near the presidential compound.

Zakaria Daoud, a resident who lives in the area, reported hearing the gunshots. They rang out for several minutes.

The origin of the gunfire was unclear. However, videos from the area showed military vehicles and heavily armed soldiers on the streets.

The soldiers were also seen within the presidential palace. The incident raised concerns about the country’s stability.

Chad is located in a region where coups are common. The incident occurred amid tensions ahead of a presidential election.

The election is set for May and June. It could return the Central African state to constitutional rule.

Chad has been under military rule since 2021. The military authorities seized power after the death of President Idriss Déby.

Foreign Affairs Minister Abderaman Koulamallah reassured the public that the situation was under control. He spoke in a Facebook live broadcast from the presidential palace.

“The situation is completely under control, there is no fear,” he said. The minister was surrounded by soldiers, and the palace appeared quiet.

The incident occurred just days after Chadian opposition politician Yaya Dillo was killed. He died during an exchange of fire with security forces.

State prosecutor Oumar Mahamat Kedelaye reported the incident. However, the opposition party’s general secretary disputed the account.

The party claimed that soldiers opened fire on party members. The government accused the party of attacking the internal security agency.

The incident resulted in several deaths. The situation in Chad remains volatile, with the international community monitoring the potential for further unrest.

Editor : Josephine Mahachi