Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno has started a security tour in several provinces, beginning in Torboul, Ennedi Ouest, where he announced sanctions against military and administrative officials and ordered the disarmament of civilians. This move comes amid rising tensions over access to water and pastures. The President met with administrative and military officials from Ennedi Ouest and Ennedi Est to address a dispute between herders that could escalate into armed clashes.
Following the meeting, General Hamoda Mahamat Béchir, commander of defense zone 8 and military coordinator for Ennedi Est, was suspended from his duties, with his deputy taking over as interim. Several administrative officials were also relieved of their duties, including the prefects of Torboul and Mourtcha, as well as the sub-prefect of Am-Djirémé. The President's decisions were made after identifying shortcomings in the execution of disarmament instructions and administrative management of tensions.
General Tahir Erda Tahiro, director general of the State Institutions' Security Services, was tasked with disarming civilians in the area. The President also announced measures to prevent future disputes over pastoral resources, including the construction of hydraulic infrastructure for livestock within three months. Additionally, the deployment of nomadic guards is planned to ensure access to water points.
The authorities also plan to ban the local water storage system known as "Guirbé" through a ministerial decree, pending the completion of drilling operations. These announcements are part of the President's security tour, which includes visits to several provinces. Currently, information about the events in Torboul mainly comes from official communications.
The President's security tour aims to address rising tensions and disputes over resources in various provinces. The Ennedi region has experienced recurring conflicts over access to water and pastures, which have sometimes turned violent. By imposing sanctions and ordering disarmament, the President seeks to restore stability and maintain order in the region.
The effectiveness of these measures in reducing tensions and preventing future conflicts remains to be seen. The President's administration has not provided a detailed timeline for implementing these measures or information on potential challenges. Local communities and stakeholders will likely be closely watching the developments in the coming months.
The situation in Ennedi Ouest and the broader region will likely continue to be a focus for the President's administration. The success of the security tour and the implementation of announced measures will be critical in determining the stability of the region. Key points include the suspension of General Hamoda Mahamat Béchir, the disarmament of civilians, and the construction of new hydraulic infrastructure.
Key points
- The President of Chad has imposed sanctions on military and administrative officials in Ennedi Ouest.
- The disarmament of civilians in the region has been ordered.
- New hydraulic infrastructure for livestock will be constructed within three months.
