The National Human Rights Commission (CNDH) of Chad has voiced strong opposition to any move to reinstate the death penalty, reaffirming the country’s commitment to human rights and the sanctity of life.
Chad abolished capital punishment in May 2020 under a new anti-terrorism law, ending its application for all crimes, including terrorism.
In a statement released on Friday, the CNDH expressed deep concern over initiatives advocating a return to executions.
The Commission acknowledged the legitimate anger and fear caused by heinous crimes in the country. It emphasized that while public concern over rising insecurity is understandable, “the death penalty constitutes an absolute negation of the right to life, a right sacred and inviolable.”
Highlighting the inefficacy of capital punishment, the CNDH argued that executions do not serve as a deterrent any more than life sentences. Instead, the Commission called for strengthening judicial and policing institutions and addressing the root causes of crime. “Citizen security cannot be guaranteed by cruel and inhuman punishments, but by effective and fair justice,” the statement stressed.
The CNDH also positioned Chad within the broader global movement advocating for the abolition of the death penalty. It urged the government to continue legal and institutional reforms to reinforce the rule of law and ensure the justice system operates effectively.
The Commission concluded by recommending that the government uphold the current legislation prohibiting the death penalty. It further called for a calm, constructive national dialogue to explore sustainable solutions to insecurity while safeguarding human rights and fundamental freedoms.
This statement comes amid growing debate in Chad over responses to escalating violent crime, including terrorism and organized criminal activity. By opposing the death penalty’s reinstatement, the CNDH has placed human rights at the center of the conversation, emphasizing legal reform and institutional strengthening as the path toward lasting security.
The call reflects Chad’s ongoing commitment to international human rights norms and signals the importance of balancing public security concerns with the protection of life and the principles of justice.
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