Chad government issues formal apology to magistrates

The Chadian government has formally apologized to magistrates following extraordinary general assemblies held by the Syndicat des Magistrats Tchadiens (SMT) and Syndicat des Magistrats et Agents du Ministère Public (SYAMAT).

Key developments in judicial dialogue

The two magistrate unions convened an emergency meeting on May 26, 2026, at the Palace of Justice in N’Djamena. Delegates were tasked with enforcing resolutions over a ten-day period following the assembly.

On the same day, the Prime Minister of Chad met with union representatives in the presence of the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, as well as the First President of the Supreme Court. During this meeting, the Prime Minister delivered an official apology on behalf of the government and emphasized the need to strengthen institutional cohesion.

The following day, the unions held separate discussions with the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, followed by a joint meeting with the Minister of Public Security and Immigration. The Supreme Court’s First President attended both sessions, which focused on reaching a mutually agreeable and peaceful resolution.

The Minister of Public Security also issued a formal apology to the magistrates. Union leaders acknowledged these gestures and commended the commitment to dialogue and peace demonstrated by all involved parties.