Chad faces an uncertain future 23 Apr 2021 General Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, the son of Chad's slain leader Idriss Deby Itno is to take over as president in place of his father, according to a charter released by the presidency on April 21, 2021. (Photo by Kenzo Tribouillard/AFP) Chad’s President Idriss Déby Itno has died in combat just a day after securing re-election, opening a period of uncertainty in a country that is a crucial strategic ally of the West in the region. His son, Mahamat Idriss Déby, was immediately named transitional leader as head of a military council and both the government and parliament were dissolved, but the army vowed “free and democratic” elections after an 18-month transitional period.