Chad’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Allamaye Halina, announced his cabinet on Monday, marking a symbolic end to three years of military rule.
The announcement comes after President Mahamat Idriss Deby, who took power following his father’s death in 2021, was sworn in after a contested election.
While the formation of a new government signals a return to civilian leadership, continuity appears to be the dominant theme.
The majority of ministers, 23 out of 35, served in the previous military-backed administration. This includes key allies of President Deby.
Halina himself is a former ambassador to China and was appointed just days before Deby’s inauguration.
The reshuffle saw the exit of ministers from the opposition Transformers party, whose leader lost the presidential election to Deby.
The election’s validity has been challenged by international observers and opposition figures. Deby, however, has promised to be a leader for all Chadians and vowed a “return to constitutional order.”
Chad’s transition to civilian rule comes as the country grapples with several challenges. One of the poorest nations globally, Chad plays a crucial role in the fight against jihadist movements in the Sahel region.
The new government will need to address both internal political divisions and the ongoing security threats facing the nation.
