The United States condemns the violence in Chad involving clashes between security forces and protesters protesting the extension of Chad’s original 18-month transition period, which expires today . We are deeply concerned by the reports of casualties and urge all parties to de-escalate the situation and exercise restraint. We call for those responsible for the violence to be held accountable. We also condemn the attack that took place outside the main gate of the US Embassy in which assailants in civilian clothes and private vehicles removed police checkpoints and killed four individuals. We also condemn the unauthorized use of embassy property by protesters involved in the protests.
As the Chadian people pursue their aspirations for a credible transition to democracy, we call on all parties to refrain from violence and prioritize dialogue and respect for the human rights of citizens, including the right to freedoms of expression and peaceful assembly.
The United States regrets the results of Chad’s National Dialogue and their consequences for an inclusive, peaceful and timely transition to a democratic and civilian-led government. We note with concern the government’s lack of attention to the clear directive of the Peace and Security Council of the African Union and the public commitments of the Transitional Military Council that its leaders will not be candidates in the upcoming elections.
The United States believes that a government chosen by the people of Chad in a free and fair election, overseen by independent institutions, will offer the best hope for Chad to emerge from decades of conflict. We will continue to support the people of Chad to fulfill their aspirations for a credible and timely transition to democracy.
