Abuja – Chadian President Mahamat idriss Deby Itno, on a trip to Abuja, on Friday, assured that the transition programme in his country is on course, according to an official Nigerian statement.
Deby Itno promised change after seizing power following the death in April last year of his father, the country’s longtime leader Idriss Deby Itno, in a battle with rebels.
Qatar has agreed to mediate in peace talks in Doha between the Chadian government and rebel groups in the landlocked African nation.
ALSO READ | Nigeria train attack leaves ‘injuries and fatalities’: official
But the myriad opposition groups have refused to hold direct talks with the government, throwing in doubt plans to start a full national dialogue in May to draw up a new constitution.
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari received “assurances that the transition to democratic rule in Chad…is on course”, according to an official statement released in Abuja.
It said current leader Deby Itno gave the assurances during the visit to Abuja to update Buhari on the ongoing democratic process in his country.
“President Buhari encouraged the Chadian President to proceed with the transition plan, assuring him of Nigeria’s support,” the statement added.
ALSO READ | Nigeria boat disaster toll climbs to 13, official says
The statement said the two leaders also reiterated their resolve to continue the fight against terrorism in the Lake Chad region area.
Under the plan of the younger Deby, a 38-year-old army general, the Doha talks would lead to a national dialogue starting on May 10 before agreeing a new constitution and then holding elections.
With its constellation of ethnic groups and armed outfits, Chad has had a long history of volatility since gaining independence from France in 1960. Tens of thousands have died in various conflicts.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: Twitter / @Gmahamatldi
Source: AFP
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
