Mahamat Idriss Deby has made sweeping changes at the top of Chad’s Defense and Security Corps. On the evening of October 16, the government announced a complete overhaul of the Army, Police, and Gendarmerie leadership, without offering any explanation. This unprecedented shake-up comes amid ongoing political and security tensions in the country.
Upon his return from a mission to the United Arab Emirates, President Deby dismissed or replaced nearly all top officials in these sectors. High-ranking officers, including the deputy chiefs of the armed forces, army, police, gendarmerie, and National Guard, were removed from their posts. Around twenty generals were affected by this sudden decision.
No official reason has been provided, as is typical in Chad where such topics are often considered “taboo.” However, a political analyst described it as the most significant leadership overhaul since Deby took power over three years ago.