Various opposition groups, the Catholic church and rebels responsible for last year's killing of Gen Mahamat’s father, Idriss Déby, boycotted the talks aimed at determining Chad’s political future.

The US warned it would impose sanctions on the ruling junta if it extended the transition. The African Union similarly warned Chad against extending the transition.

Gen Mahamat – who will be eligible for future elections – has pledged to ensure institutional reforms, including adopting a new constitution, an electoral code and creating a new election commission.

Lack of consensus over the transition could worsen political tensions and a long-running rebellion.