The head of the Rassemblement pour la Justice et l’Égalité au Tchad (RAJET), Ordjei Abderahim Chaha, has sent a passionate appeal to President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, urging clemency for imprisoned opposition figures from the former GCAP and the Transformateurs party.
In his open letter, the political leader argues that keeping these detainees behind bars ‘diminishes the very essence of democracy’ and tarnishes Chad’s judicial reputation. ‘A true democratic system embraces opposition as a sign of strength, not repression,’ he asserts, emphasizing that political dissent is the lifeblood of a free and vibrant society.
Why opposition matters in Chad’s democracy
Ordjei Abderahim Chaha warns that suppressing opposition voices could turn Chad’s democracy into ‘a lifeless shell’, paving the way for authoritarianism. He stresses that opposition leaders are not adversaries of national unity but key partners in dialogue—essential for healing divisions and fostering progress.
Calls for dialogue and reconciliation
The RAJET president champions national dialogue as the path to reconciliation, asserting that ‘peace and development flourish where open conversations take root.’ He assures that jailed opponents are willing participants in such efforts, dismissing claims that they reject engagement. ‘Their detention only deepens wounds; their freedom would allow healing,’ he argues.
In closing, Ordjei Abderahim Chaha cautions the president against advisors who spread division, labeling them ‘enemies of the Republic.’ He urges immediate action: ‘Free all political detainees now—let them sit at the table where Chad’s future is decided.’
