N’DJAMENA, CHAD — Chad’s president declared himself in control of the country yesterday, while admitting that three-fourths of his government had disappeared since rebels attacked the capital. For the first time since the assault began, more people were crossing bridges toward N’Djamena than away — apparently heeding a government call to return. Government forces pushed rebels out of the capital after weekend battles that left hundreds dead and sent thousands fleeing.

President Deby wore a military uniform as he received reporters in the presidential palace to make his first public comments since the coup attempt. He denied reports that he had been injured as N’Djamena was besieged, spreading his arms wide and saying, “Look at me, I’m fine.”

“We are in total control, not only of the capital, but of all the country,” Mr. Deby said after meeting with the French defense minister, who came to Chad in a show of support for the government.

Oil-rich Chad has accused Sudan of backing the rebels in an attempt to prevent deployment of a European force to protect refugees from the war-ravaged Darfur region that borders Chad. Sudan has denied involvement in Chad’s coup attempt.

Mr. Deby also said the Chadian army was chasing the rebels, who were fleeing east.