The leader of the Rassemblement pour la Justice et l’Égalité au Tchad (RAJET), Ordjei Abderahim Chaha, has issued a passionate plea to President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, urging clemency for imprisoned opposition figures from the former GCAP and the Les Transformateurs party.
a bold call for political reconciliation
In an open letter brimming with urgency, Chaha appeals to the president to reconsider the detention of these opposition leaders, arguing that their continued imprisonment ‘casts a bitter shadow’ over Chad’s democratic progress and undermines public trust in the justice system.
‘Embracing opposition, even in its most defiant form, is the hallmark of true political maturity—the cornerstone of a thriving liberal democracy,’ Chaha asserts. He emphasizes that a vibrant opposition is not a threat but a vital force, enriching the democratic process with debate, accountability, and fresh perspectives.
democracy at risk: the dangers of silencing dissent
The RAJET president warns that stifling opposition voices could reduce democracy to ‘cold embers,’ paving the way for authoritarianism. He positions the opposition as the backbone of democratic resilience, urging the president to cement his legacy by releasing all political detainees without delay.
Chaha champions national dialogue as the path to healing, describing it as a unifying force capable of fostering patriotism and collective progress. He reassures that the incarcerated oppositions remain open to meaningful talks, asserting that ‘it is through dialogue that the light of peace and development shines.’
rejecting divisive influences
With a stern warning to the president, Chaha cautions against advisors who spread discord, urging him to ‘ignore those who fan the flames of hatred and division.’ He condemns the spread of misinformation and fabricated reports, labeling their authors as ‘gravediggers of the Republic’ who threaten Chad’s stability.
Concluding his appeal, Chaha demands the immediate release of all political prisoners, insisting their presence at the dialogue table is essential to ‘heal the nation’s deep wounds’ and restore faith in democratic governance.