Tchad: mediation underway to resolve tensions between judges and security minister

A high-level meeting in N’Djamena on May 27 sought to bridge a widening rift between the judiciary and the Ministry of Public Security. The closed-door session at the Justice Ministry brought together key figures, including Justice Minister Ndolenodji Alixe Naimbaye and Security Minister Ali Ahmat Aghabache.

The Justice Ministry stressed the need to preserve institutional harmony and avoid further escalation. During the talks, the Security Minister clarified that comments made at a public land-use conference were taken out of context. He explained that video edits circulating online distorted his original statements, which were never intended to question the judiciary’s authority.

Union representatives voiced concerns, arguing that the minister’s remarks undermined judicial independence. While acknowledging the government’s conciliatory stance, they requested clearer wording in any official apology to remove lingering ambiguity.

The Security Minister admitted his statements could be misread and pledged to issue a precise public apology. The Supreme Court’s Chief Justice emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue to uphold judicial credibility and national stability.

Attendees agreed to refine the apology draft and release a joint statement outlining the reconciliation process. By the meeting’s close, both sides had reaffirmed their commitment to constructive engagement.