The ordinary session of Chad’s Parliament convened this week in N’Djamena, marked by a solemn ceremony led by President of the Congress Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi. In a speech laden with gravity, he underscored the nation’s pressing security concerns and institutional reforms, urging lawmakers to unite behind the principles of responsibility and the rule of law.

Opening his address, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in recent clashes with Boko Haram militants in Lac Province. He described the moment as “a particularly trying period for our Nation,” emphasizing the sacrifices made by the defense and security forces to safeguard Chad’s territorial integrity.

He also honored the memory of late Deputy Haoua Outman Djame, who passed away on March 26, 2026, lauding her parliamentary dedication, discipline, and unwavering commitment to democratic values. A moment of silence was observed for those killed in recent terrorist and intercommunal violence.

Key parliamentary priorities

Two critical issues dominate the agenda: revising the Congress’s internal regulations to align with the revised Constitution of December 17, 2023, and reviewing the government’s request to extend the state of emergency in Lac Province.

The state of emergency, declared by presidential decree on May 7, 2026, for an initial 21-day period, has been extended by the government for an additional 45 days. This measure aims to intensify counterterrorism operations and protect local populations from ongoing threats.

Diplomatic milestones and controversies

Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi highlighted Chad’s growing diplomatic influence on the continent, celebrating 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.

He firmly rejected allegations from the UN Human Rights Office regarding alleged misconduct by Chadian security forces involving fishermen in Lac Province. Describing the accusations as “a distorted and misleading interpretation,” he reaffirmed Parliament’s full support for President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and the armed forces battling terrorism.

Addressing intercommunal violence in Dar Tama, Wadi Fira Province, he called for dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence to prevent further escalation.

Concluding his address, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi called on lawmakers to rise to the occasion, working tirelessly to build “a stable, secure, united, and prosperous Chad.” With that, the ordinary session of the Parliament of the Republic of Chad was officially declared open.