Chad’s Transition Period Raises Concerns Over Freedom of Expression

A Lacking Commitment to Democratic Institutions and Civil Rights

In the wake of Idriss Déby’s death and the subsequent transition period, Chad has been plagued by a lack of separation of powers, an independent judiciary, and corruption. The country’s commitment to democratic institutions and civil rights remains uncertain.

Concerns Over Independence of Judiciary

According to observers, the transitional constitution provides for the appointment of all position holders in politics, administration, and the judiciary by the transitional President Déby. This raises concerns over the independence of the judiciary, which is supposed to be exercised by the Supreme Court, courts of appeal, and ordinary courts during the transition period. In practice, judges are often intimidated or dismissed if they act independently.

Trial Proceedings Without Legal Defense

The trial of those arrested during recent demonstrations proceeded without legal defense, with 262 accused sentenced to two- and three-year prison terms. The Chadian Bar Association denounced the process as a parody of justice.

Rampant Corruption

Corruption is rampant in Chad, with ordinary citizens often forced to pay bribes for bureaucratic services. Prominent examples include the former private secretary and closest adviser to Mahamat Déby, Idriss Youssouf Boy, who was involved in embezzling large sums of money and later sat in the front row at Mahamat Déby’s inauguration.

Violation of Civil Rights

The interim constitution guarantees civil rights, but these are largely ignored in practice. Women’s rights are frequently violated, with authorities rarely investigating cases of abuse or domestic violence. Homosexuality is considered incompatible with tradition and religion, and citizens are often at the mercy of state authorities.

Democratic Institutions Lacking Legitimacy

Democratic institutions have been enshrined in Chad’s constitution since independence, but they have been largely inefficient and lacked democratic legitimacy. The recent transition period has seen a clear bias towards individuals close to or dependent on the power elite being nominated to the transitional government and parliament.

National Dialogue Process Used to Extend Power

The National Dialogue process, which was supposed to negotiate the country’s political future, was instead used to extend Mahamat Déby’s rule beyond the original 18-month transition period. Only a few groups, including Wakit Tamma, les Transformateurs, and the Catholic Church, refused to participate in the process.

Registration of Political Parties Dependent on Power Elite

The registration of political parties in Chad is dependent on the goodwill of the power elite, creating a blurred distinction between parties and their agendas. Many opposition parties have been excluded from the transition process, with some leaders fleeing the country or going into hiding.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chad’s transition period has raised serious concerns over freedom of expression, democratic institutions, and human rights. The lack of separation of powers, an independent judiciary, and commitment to civil rights is alarming, and international organizations should pressure the Chadian government to respect these fundamental freedoms.