N’DJAMENA, Chad — Chad’s president declared a nationwide state of emergency Thursday, telling citizens that tightened controls are needed to restore order after recent rebel attacks.
In a speech broadcast on national radio and television, President Idriss Deby said he signed a decree increasing the government’s powers for 15 days, as provided for in Chad’s constitution.
Forces loyal to Deby battled rebels Feb. 2-3 in and around the capital of this former French colony in Central Africa. The Red Cross said more than 160 people were killed and 1,000 wounded. Deby’s measure empowers regional governors to control the movement of people and vehicles, bans most meetings, limits what is published in the press and imposes a curfew.
After the 15-day period, the national assembly decides whether to allow an extension.
