Title: Liberation of activists from the Les Transformateurs party in Chad: a political outcome rather than a question of security?
Introduction :
The case of the 72 activists of the Transformers party arbitrarily detained in Chad ended on November 5 with their release. “Inhumane” detention conditions and unfounded suspicions of military preparation have raised serious concerns. However, the release which took place shortly after the negotiations in Kinshasa raises questions about its political rather than security nature. This article examines this case and draws conclusions about the development of the country’s judicial system.
A contested detention:
The 72 Transformers activists were arrested by police on October 8 while they were playing sports on a field in N’Djamena. The conditions of detention were criticized by the party, which described these arrests as arbitrary. Detainees were crowded into a single cell, exposed to the heat and without mosquito nets, while their families were unable to bring them food. These inhumane conditions have raised concerns about respect for human rights in the country.
A timely release:
The release of the activists came shortly after negotiations and the agreement to return their leader, Succès Masra, to the country. According to Me Allatan Ndordji, a member of the collective of lawyers who represented them, it is possible that their detention was used as a political tool to exert pressure on the Transformers leaders during the negotiations. It is important to note that those responsible for the arrest gave no official justification for their detention.
Questions about the independence of the judiciary:
This arrest and release raises concerns about the independence of the judiciary in Chad. The activists’ lawyers fear that such arbitrary arrests could happen again in the future. They urge the executive power to guarantee real independence of the judiciary, in order to avoid any interference and ensure respect for human rights. Preserving the rule of law is essential to ensuring stability and confidence in the justice system.
Conclusion :
The release of the 72 activists from the Les Transformateurs party raises questions about the real motivations behind their detention. Inhumane detention conditions and unfounded suspicions of military preparation highlight the need to protect human rights in Chad. The situation also highlights the importance of the independence of the judiciary to preserve the rule of law and confidence in the judicial system. Ensuring fair and transparent justice is essential for the democratic and social development of the country.