Chad lawyers secure temporary release for gcap leaders over health concerns

Two prominent members of the former Groupe de Concertation des Acteurs Politiques (GCAP), Me Bidi Valentin and Bombay Kelo, have been granted provisional release from prison due to critical health conditions. The decision follows an urgent review of their cases by judicial authorities in N’Djamena.

health emergencies drive judicial decision

According to Me Adoum Moussa, a leading attorney representing the former GCAP leaders, the temporary release stems from the deteriorating health of both individuals. “Their advanced age and multiple chronic illnesses left them vulnerable in detention,” he explained. “The prosecutor’s office in N’Djamena acknowledged these risks and ordered their immediate release on humanitarian grounds.”

The legal team emphasized that this measure does not equate to a full acquittal or dismissal of the case. “This is strictly a provisional arrangement, pending further judicial review,” Me Adoum Moussa clarified. “Their legal status remains under appeal, and they are still required to comply with court-mandated conditions.”

broader efforts to address detention conditions

The legal collective has also initiated similar procedures for other incarcerated GCAP members suffering from serious health issues. “We are actively pursuing provisional releases for additional detainees whose medical conditions demand urgent attention,” the lawyer noted. “Justice must balance accountability with compassion, especially when life and well-being are at stake.”

The legal team filed an appeal against the original verdict, which sentenced the GCAP leaders to eight years in prison on charges including rebellion, criminal conspiracy, and illegal possession of firearms. “We are confident the appellate court will reconsider the evidence and deliver a fairer ruling,” Me Adoum Moussa stated. “The initial judgment was disproportionate and failed to account for the broader political context.”

next steps in the judicial process

While the two leaders have been released on medical grounds, their legal battles are far from over. The appeal process is underway, with the N’Djamena appeals court scheduled to review the case in the coming months. Until then, both individuals remain under close judicial supervision.