N’Djamena, July 13, 2026 – The High Court of N’Djamena delivered its verdict today in a medical malpractice case involving a surgeon charged with involuntary homicide following the death of a 60-year-old patient during surgery.

The defendant acknowledged the procedural facts but denied any professional misconduct. The defense argued that the death resulted from an unavoidable medical risk, emphasizing that all surgical procedures carry inherent dangers—even in advanced healthcare systems. The lawyer highlighted that the patient’s family had provided prior informed consent, as evidenced by a signed liability waiver. While advocating for leniency given the surgeon’s outstanding career and past dedication, the defense maintained there was no criminal intent.

The prosecution, in its closing arguments, requested the surgeon’s acquittal, asserting that no evidence in the case file supported allegations of intentional medical error or clear negligence directly causing the patient’s death. The prosecutor cautioned against excessive judicialization of medical acts, warning it could foster harmful distrust between doctors and patients.

The court ruled in line with the prosecution’s position. The surgeon was fully acquitted of involuntary homicide charges. However, the tribunal imposed a civil fine of 50,000 CFA francs, though the precise reasoning behind this penalty—likely tied to procedural costs or minor civil liability—was not detailed during the hearing.