The President of Chad’s Parliament, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi, inaugurated the annual ordinary session on May 20, 2026, in a solemn ceremony held in N’Djamena. His address, delivered with deep conviction, underscored national security imperatives, institutional reforms, and the urgent need for political unity and adherence to the rule of law.
In his opening remarks, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi paid tribute to fallen soldiers who perished in recent clashes with Boko Haram militants in Lac Province. He described the moment as a “profoundly painful chapter for our nation,” acknowledging the sacrifices made by defense and security forces to safeguard Chad’s territorial integrity.
The Congress leader also commemorated the late Deputy Haoua Outman Djame, who passed away on March 26, 2026. Her commitment to parliamentary duty, unwavering integrity, and dedication to republican values were highlighted. A moment of silence was observed to honor victims of terrorist and intercommunal violence that have recently scarred the country.
Key parliamentary priorities
Two critical issues dominate the legislative agenda this session. First, lawmakers will review and revise the Parliament’s internal regulations to align with the revised Constitution of December 17, 2023. Second, they will deliberate on the government’s request to extend the state of emergency in Lac Province by 45 days, originally declared on May 7, 2026 for an initial 21-day period.
During the address, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi emphasized the government’s rationale for the extension: ongoing terrorist threats in the region and the necessity to continue protective operations for local populations. The session reflects Parliament’s commitment to balancing security imperatives with civic liberties.
Diplomatic recognition and national unity
The president celebrated Chad’s growing diplomatic influence on the African continent. He noted the recent appointment of Senator Mariam Mahamat Nour as Vice-President of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), as well as the election of Deputy Djidda Mamar Mahamat as Third Vice-President of the Pan-African Parliament. These developments, he stated, reflect Chad’s rising role in regional governance and peacebuilding.
Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi also addressed recent allegations by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights concerning incidents involving security forces and local fishermen in Lac Province. He dismissed these claims as “misleading and inaccurate,” reaffirming full parliamentary support for President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno and the armed forces engaged in the fight against terrorism.
Urgent call for reconciliation
Turning to intercommunal violence in Dar Tama, Wadi Fira Province, the Parliament President urged dialogue, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence. He warned against the resurgence of tensions and called on all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue over confrontation.
In closing, Ali Kolotou Tchaïmi challenged parliamentarians to rise to the historical responsibility before them. He urged collective action to build a stable, secure, united, and prosperous Chad. With these words, the annual ordinary session of the Parliament of the Republic of Chad was formally declared open.
