Chadian president defends security minister amid judiciary dispute

The Chadian Head of State, Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, has publicly backed his Minister of Public Security following a legal complaint filed by magistrates over controversial remarks perceived as disrespectful to the judiciary.

In a clear stance on democratic principles, the President emphasized that freedom of expression applies universally—whether to ordinary citizens or public officials—as long as it complies with existing laws. He warned that when judges entrusted with public duties reject criticism, it undermines the foundations of societal trust and governance.

This prompted the President to announce his decision to step down from presiding over the Superior Council of the Judiciary, signaling a commitment to judicial independence and impartiality.

Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno went further to clarify a key point: the Minister of Public Security did not attack the justice system as a whole, nor all magistrates individually. He acknowledged the role of unionism in democracy but cautioned against conflating legitimate defense of rights with the endorsement of unethical or unjust behavior.

Earlier controversy arose when a widely circulated video showed the Minister sharply criticizing certain court rulings, going so far as to declare his readiness to “tear up” what he termed “false orders.” These remarks triggered widespread debate about the limits of public criticism toward judicial decisions and the appropriate balance between free speech and institutional respect.