Title: Magistrates’ strike in Chad: litigants taken hostage
Introduction :
The magistrates’ strike in Chad, which has lasted for more than two months, continues to have a significant impact on litigants. Not only do they encounter difficulties in obtaining documents and monitoring the progress of their cases, but also in asserting their rights. The situation is worrying and raises questions about the independence of the judiciary and the working conditions of magistrates in Chad.
Empty hallways and closed courtrooms:
In the corridors of the courthouse, a heavy silence reigns. The magistrates are on strike and only the clerks are present in the offices. The courtrooms remain closed, with the exception of the commercial court whose judges have decided to disassociate themselves from the movement. This situation leaves litigants helpless faced with the impossibility of obtaining decisions, withdrawing acts and advancing their cases. Some have been waiting for weeks or even months without being able to advance their procedures.
Penalized litigants:
The consequences of this strike are felt in all sectors. Justice professionals are particularly affected, but the litigants themselves are also penalized. Administrative procedures are delayed, requests for documents remain pending and access to justice is complicated. For some, this situation has significant financial consequences, such as the inability to receive payments or settle disputes. With justice at a standstill, the whole of society suffers.
The legitimate demands of the magistrates:
Faced with this situation, the magistrates on strike are demanding improvements both in terms of the independence of the judiciary and their working conditions. They contest the draft Constitution which does not guarantee this independence and demand concrete commitments from the government. In addition, they are also demanding an improvement in their working conditions in order to be able to carry out their mission in optimal conditions. Their fight is legitimate, and they hope that the government will respond quickly to their demands.
A continuing situation:
Despite the mobilizations and the demands of the magistrates, no meeting took place with the Minister of Justice to find a solution to the crisis. This prolonged situation is worrying and testifies to a lack of dialogue and consideration of the concerns of magistrates. The consequences of this strike on litigants continue to worsen, and it is urgent to find a favorable outcome for all parties.
Conclusion :
The magistrates’ strike in Chad has significant consequences for litigants who find themselves taken hostage. The independence of the judiciary, as well as the improvement of the working conditions of magistrates, are crucial issues to ensure the efficient and fair functioning of justice. It is essential that the government initiate serious discussions with the magistrates in order to find a resolution to this crisis and to allow litigants to obtain fair and rapid justice