Chad’s Battle for Justice: One Year On

Chad: A Year On, Victims Await Justice

Impunity for “Black Thursday” as Political Space Closes

October 20, 2023 8:30AM EDT

In October of 2022, massive protests erupted in Chad, resulting in serious human rights violations, including the use of live ammunition, arbitrary arrests, and torture. One year later, victims are still waiting for justice as the Chadian authorities have failed to carry out prompt, effective, and independent criminal investigations into these violations. The lack of action raises questions about whether anyone will ever be held accountable for the harm suffered by the protesters.

The Protests and their Aftermath

The protests took place in the aftermath of the death of President Idriss Déby Itno in April 2021. A transitional military council, headed by his son, Mahamat Idriss Déby, took power and promised to restore civilian rule by October 20, 2022. However, security forces responded to the protests with disproportionate force, resulting in the deaths and injuries of scores of protesters.

Furthermore, hundreds of men and boys were arrested, with many being held in a high-security prison located 600 kilometers away from the capital. Several detainees died due to lack of water during their transfer to the prison. Once at the prison, the protesters experienced further abuse, including torture and ill-treatment by other detainees.

The violence and human rights violations committed during these protests were condemned by Human Rights Watch, who stated that the violence was disproportionate and unjustified. The failure of the authorities to carry out independent investigations and hold those responsible accountable leaves the victims and their families without any hope for justice.

Inadequate Response from Chad‘s Authorities

The Chadian authorities have not conducted any judicial investigations into the human rights violations that occurred during the protests. The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) released a report in February 2023, stating that 128 people were killed and 518 injured on “Black Thursday.” The report found that security forces used disproportionate means to quell the protests and systematically violated several fundamental human rights.

Despite these findings, there has been no indication that the Chadian government has taken the necessary steps to ensure accountability. The Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) launched an investigation into the violence, but its findings have not been made public. It is uncertain whether the investigation will highlight the disproportionate use of force or emphasize the government’s obligation to ensure accountability.

Erosion of Political Space and Arrests of Opposition Figures

In addition to the lack of justice for the victims of the protests, Chad has seen the erosion of political space and the targeting of opposition figures. The military authorities have closed political space by detaining members and supporters of Chad‘s main opposition party, Les Transformateurs. These arrests seem to be an attempt to suppress political dissent ahead of the December constitutional referendum.

These actions by the Chadian authorities undermine the principles of democracy and freedom of expression. It is crucial for Chad to respect fundamental rights, allow opposition party members and protesters to express their opinions, and ensure that the voices of the Chadian people are heard.

Call for Accountability and Action

Human Rights Watch has called on the Chadian authorities to initiate fair and effective trials for those responsible for the disproportionate use of force and other serious abuses committed during the protests. Accountability is essential to ensure that the lives lost and the harm suffered by the protesters are not forgotten or dismissed.

Furthermore, as Chad prepares for a constitutional referendum in December and presidential elections in 2024, it is crucial for the authorities to create an environment that respects human rights and allows for open and fair political participation. The international community must also exert pressure on Chad to prioritize accountability and protect the rights of its citizens.

In conclusion, the lack of justice for the victims of the October 2022 protests in Chad is deeply concerning. The Chadian authorities must take immediate action to conduct independent investigations and hold those responsible accountable. It is essential to uphold the principles of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in order to build a just and inclusive society in Chad.

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