Tensions In Chad As Deby Sworn In For Fifth Term

Fahad Shabbir (@FahadShabbir) Published August 08, 2016 | 10:27 PM

N'DJAMENA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 8th August, 2016) - Chad's President Idriss Deby took the oath of office Monday for a fifth term in power, facing dogged resistance from an opposition that alleges his re-election was a "political hold-up".

With tensions high a day after the death of a protester during an opposition march, around 14 African heads of state attended the swearing-in ceremony, including the presidents of Nigeria and Niger. "I am the president of all Chadians," Deby said in his inauguration speech. The 64-year-old veteran leader promised "a relentless battle against terrorism everywhere it threatens our interests and our security". Other Chadian allies, including leaders of Mali, Burkina Faso and Mauritania, gathered for the ceremony at a large hotel in the capital N'Djamena.