African Union and Chad’s human rights commission join forces for transitional justice

The chair of Chad’s National Human Rights Commission (CNDH), Belngar Larmé Jacques, welcomed a high-level delegation from the African Union (AU) on Wednesday, 24 June. The meeting aims to bolster the transitional justice process in Chad, with a focus on consolidating peace and social cohesion.

Led by Maria Jose Samba Ovono Obono, the AU special representative to Chad and head of mission in N’Djamena, the delegation visits as part of a partnership between the African Union and the International Center for Transitional Justice. This initiative seeks to promote lasting solutions to conflicts that have affected Chad.

After the meeting, Maria Jose Samba Ovono Obono praised the critical role played by the national human rights institution. “We understand the importance of the National Human Rights Commission. Its work is essential. That is precisely why we are here today.”

The special representative also announced concrete AU support for the process. “The African Union will provide technical assistance. We will strengthen capacities so that transitional justice in Chad becomes a genuine tool contributing to durable peace, social cohesion, and nation-building.”

Expressing “great satisfaction with the fruitful discussions,” Maria Jose Samba Ovono Obono noted that the mission helped identify the needs and challenges facing the CNDH.

She further commended the commitment of Chad’s highest authorities and national institutions to social cohesion and the pursuit of sustainable solutions for peace in Chad.