Chad releases 150 Klessoum prisoners under Decree No. 2151/PR/2026 collective sentence relief

Chad’s justice ministry carries out collective sentence relief at Klessoum

Justice Minister Ndolenodji Alixe Naïmbaye presided over the official ceremony for the collective remission of sentences at the Klessoum remand and correction facility on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, acting under Decree No. 2151/PR/2026.

The event took place inside the prison compound and brought together the public prosecutor at the N’Djamena high court, the president of the N’Djamena high court, the general prosecutor at the N’Djamena court of appeal, the secretary-general of the justice ministry, senior defense and security officials, and civil society representatives.

In total, 150 inmates walked free under the terms of the decree, which was signed on August 14, 2026.

Minister praises presidential clemency as a constitutional prerogative

In her address, Naïmbaye paid tribute to the head of state, who she said acted out of humanity and fairness in extending clemency to citizens subject to final and enforceable criminal rulings.

“For the Marshal of Chad, every citizen deserves competent, swift, accessible and equitable justice,” she stated.

The minister described the pardon as a sovereign privilege enshrined in the constitution, noting that the president has frequently used it to benefit thousands of convicts whose sentences are either fully remitted or replaced with lighter penalties.

She explained that Decree No. 2151/2026 of August 14, 2026, issued by President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno in his role as father of the nation, reflects that tradition.

Naïmbaye called the measure “an act steeped in humanism and compassion,” adding that it was more than a single event — it was a defining moment in which some definitively convicted ordinary-law citizens would see their prison terms partially and gradually reduced, or secure outright release.

Immediate application of the legal scale frees 150 inmates

The immediate enforcement of the legal scale set by the decree resulted in the automatic release of 150 detainees whose remaining sentences are now considered fully served.

The justice minister stressed that the decision meets core public policy requirements for justice and prison administration on several fronts.

On one hand, she said, it stems from an affirmed commitment to more humane detention conditions and a pragmatic adjustment of how sentences are carried out. On the other, it reflects targeted but constructive clemency.

Scope limited to prison sentences, rights of third parties preserved

Naïmbaye also clarified that the measure applies exclusively to custodial criminal sanctions and cannot erase the rights of the state, civil parties or third parties.

Speaking on behalf of the government, she reaffirmed the ministry’s determination to continue modernizing judicial institutions and consolidating the rule of law, with support from partners whose steady commitment she acknowledged.

Release certificates handed over as ceremony closes in celebration

During the ceremony, release certificates were issued to the now former inmates who benefited from the pardon under Decree No. 2151/PR/2026.

The moment was marked by joy and emotion before the event wrapped up with a group photo to immortalize the occasion.

By Claire Mvondo — Expert sécutiré et politique d’état