The President of Chad’s National Assembly, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi, inaugurated the ordinary session of the Parliament in N’Djamena on May 20, 2026, addressing pressing security concerns and institutional reforms. His speech underscored the need for national unity, political accountability, and the strengthening of the rule of law.
In his opening remarks, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi paid tribute to the fallen soldiers of the Chadian Armed Forces, who recently lost their lives in clashes with Boko Haram militants in the Lake Province. He described the situation as a “particularly trying time for our Nation”, emphasizing the sacrifices made by defense and security forces in safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity.
The Congress President also honored the memory of late Deputy Haoua Outman Djame, who passed away on March 26, 2026, commemorating her dedication to parliamentary work, her integrity, and her unwavering commitment to republican values. A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of victims of recent terrorist and intercommunal violence that has gripped the nation.
Key Priorities for the Session
Two major institutional priorities will dominate the parliamentary agenda: revising the internal regulations of the National Assembly to align with the revised Constitution of December 17, 2023, and reviewing the government’s request to extend the state of emergency in the Lake Province.
The state of emergency, declared by presidential decree on May 7, 2026, for an initial 21-day period, remains in effect due to the persistent terrorist threat in the region. The government has now sought a 45-day extension to continue security operations and protect civilian populations.
Diplomatic Recognition and Internal Stability
The speech highlighted Chad’s growing diplomatic influence across Africa, with Senator Mariam Mahamat Nour appointed as Vice President of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and Deputy Djidda Mamar Mahamat elected as the Third Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament.
Chad’s Parliament has also rejected allegations by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding incidents involving security forces and local fishermen in the Lake Province. Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi dismissed these claims as “a misleading and incorrect interpretation of events”, reaffirming Parliament’s full support for President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and the armed forces combating terrorism.
Addressing recent intercommunal violence in Dar Tama, Wadi Fira Province, the Congress President called for dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence to prevent further escalation of tensions.
Concluding his address, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi urged lawmakers to rise to the occasion, declaring, “Our shared mission is to build a stable, secure, united, and prosperous Chad.” With the ordinary session now officially underway, the National Assembly of the Republic of Chad is poised to tackle the nation’s most urgent challenges.