Slain Chad leader Deby’s son named ‘president of the republic’

General Mahamat Idriss Deby, 37, will take over as president after death of his father, according to new charter.

Chad’s slain leader Idriss Deby’s son will take over as president in place of his father, according to a charter released on Wednesday by the presidency. It said General Mahamat Idriss Deby, 37, who on Tuesday was swiftly named transitional leader as head of a military council following his father’s death, will “occupy the functions of the president of the republic” and also serve as head of the armed forces. The army has said “free and transparent” elections will take place after the 18-month transition period.