Chadian judges file complaint against public security minister

The executive boards of the Chad Magistrates’ Union (Syndicat des Magistrats du Tchad, SMT) and the Independent Magistrates’ Union (Syndicat Autonome des Magistrats du Tchad, SYAMAT) have formally lodged a complaint against the Minister of Public Security and Immigration, Ali Ahmat Aghabache, with the Prosecutor General of the N’Djamena Court of Appeal.

allegations of judicial dignity violation

The unions accuse the minister of severely undermining the dignity of the judiciary and the respect owed to magistrates. This follows public remarks made by the minister during an address on May 24, 2026, which were widely circulated online and widely condemned within legal circles.

outrageous and defamatory statements spark outrage

Minister Ali Ahmat Aghabache’s declarations, deemed insulting and slanderous toward the judiciary, have triggered strong reactions among legal professionals. Magistrates argue that these statements constitute public discrediting of judicial and jurisdictional acts, as well as contempt and defamation against an established body.

legal grounds for the complaint

The complaint is grounded in specific legal provisions, including Articles 142, 144, and subsequent articles of the Penal Code, as well as Articles 527 and 528 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. These statutes provide the framework for addressing such violations of judicial integrity.

demands for judicial action

The unions have urged the Prosecutor General to initiate a judicial investigation, pursue all legal avenues, and uphold the dignity, independence, and authority of the judiciary. The complaint underscores the magistrates’ commitment to protecting the integrity of Chad’s legal system.