A civil society coalition in Chad has demanded the dissolution of the Transitional Military Council, which is headed by General Mahamat Idriss Déby.

The son of President Idriss Déby was appointed to lead the country following the death of his father, who died after battling rebels on the frontline.

However, the coalition, which comprises civil society organisations (CSOs), human rights defenders and some leaders of political parties, declared that the military council was unconstitutional.

‘We place ourselves under the protection of the African Union and the United Nations and ask that mechanisms be urgently set into motion to ensure the protection of citizens, to take charge of the process of comprehensive and inclusive dialogue to build a consensual transition and to create the conditions that guarantee a lasting political handover’, a leader of the coalition, Max Loalngar, declared.

The coalition also said, ‘We unfortunately note that those close to power do not understand the determination of the people and have thus seized power by appointing his son [Idriss Deby] as if this is a monarchy without respecting the constitution in vigour’.

According to the civil society group, it was more urgent to contribute towards the edification of a civil and democratic power which can ensure an inclusive and peaceful transition.

For its part, the African Union has called on Chad’s security forces to respect the constitutional mandate and order, and to expeditiously embark on a process of restoration of constitutional order.

The body’s Peace and Security Council also called for ‘an all-inclusive national dialogue’ and expressed ‘grave concern’ over the establishment of a military council.

Source: Africannews

Photo source: HumAngle