Chad implements presidential decree for prisoner sentence reductions

Following a presidential decree, several detention centers in Chad have implemented a collective sentence reduction and release program.

In the Tandjilé province, seven detainees at the Laï detention center were released on September 28, 2026. The ceremony, presided over by Government Delegate Dr. Néné Ehemir Torna, included judicial and traditional authorities. Prosecutors emphasized that while the clemency measure provides a second chance, it does not negate the original convictions, urging the released individuals to reintegrate responsibly into society.

In the Logone Oriental province, a similar ceremony was held at the Doba detention center. Out of 437 convicted individuals, 297 benefited from the measure; this included 23 immediate releases and 274 individuals receiving reduced sentences. Prosecutor Nadjilem née Bombaïto Collette Ngaoundi stated that the action by President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno aims to balance legal sanctions with the necessity of social reintegration, particularly for the many young inmates involved.