Chad's new strongman emerges from father's shadow

Known in military circles as "the man in dark glasses", Mahamat is said to be a discreet, quiet officer who looks after his men.

The youthful general Mahamat Idriss Deby, who stood watch over his father as head of the presidential guard, wore trademark dark glasses that hid a strong, little known personality.

In the aftermath of the death of President Idriss Deby Itno, who ruled the poor Sahel country with an iron fist for three decades, his 37-year-old son has quickly emerged as the new strongman.