Chad opposition leaders granted temporary release on medical grounds

Two prominent opposition figures in Chad, Me Bidi Valentin and Bombay Kelo, both formerly associated with the Groupe de Concertation des Acteurs Politiques (GCAP), have been granted provisional release from prison due to deteriorating health conditions.

Me Adoum Moussa, a member of their defense legal team, confirmed that the decision followed medical assessments highlighting the urgent need for their release. “The temporary freedom is granted because both individuals are elderly and suffer from multiple chronic illnesses,” he explained. “The public prosecutor’s office in N’Djamena has acknowledged these health concerns and approved their provisional release.”

It is important to note that this is not a permanent acquittal, as the legal proceedings against them continue. Me Adoum Moussa emphasized that the legal team is pursuing similar measures for other detainees in the same case who are also battling health issues.

“We are actively working to secure provisional releases for other detained members suffering from medical conditions,” he stated. “Our goal is to ensure that no one’s health deteriorates further while in custody.”

The legal team has also filed an appeal against the initial court ruling that sentenced the GCAP leaders to eight years in prison. “We have formally appealed the decision,” Me Adoum Moussa confirmed. “We are now awaiting the appeals court in N’Djamena to review the case.”

Earlier this year, the leaders of the GCAP were convicted on charges including rebellion, criminal association, and illegal possession of firearms. The verdict, delivered in May, has been met with strong criticism from their legal representatives, who argue that the justice system is being misused for political leverage.