An altercation has erupted within the Chadian government, reaching a critical point at the Presidential Palace in N'Djamena. According to sources close to the presidency, President Mahamat Idriss Déby allegedly slapped General Daoud Ali Bouyeno during a dispute on Wednesday morning. The incident highlights worrying divisions within the Chadian army.
The events reportedly unfolded around 10:28 AM when General Bouyeno met with the president to discuss a drone attack near the Sudanese border, in the Tiné region. The general claimed that the drone actually belonged to the Chadian army, a revelation that provoked a strong reaction from President Déby.
According to reports, the president allegedly confronted the general in the Zaghawa language, accusing him of personally attacking him. General Bouyeno reportedly responded by emphasizing his age and insisting on mutual respect, which allegedly led the president to slap him and issue veiled threats. Déby then reportedly cited generals loyal to him, such as Ismaël Souleymane Lony, Brahim Gorou, Mht Chaïbo, and Ousmane Dicki, to reaffirm his authority.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increased tensions in Chad, exacerbated by the political transition, pressure from armed groups on the borders, and internal rivalries between military clans. The situation on the border with Sudan remains particularly concerning, with reported incursions and attacks. In March 2026, President Déby ordered his army to retaliate against any attacks by Sudanese forces after a drone strike killed civilians near the border.
If the reported events are confirmed, this incident could have significant repercussions for the stability of the Chadian regime. The Orara community, mentioned in the president's remarks, may feel bitterness towards this episode. For now, the Chadian presidency has not issued an official denial, but the incident has already created shockwaves in military circles in N'Djamena.
