Twenty-one inmates from the Koumra detention center in Chad's Mandoul province were released on September 24, 2026, following a presidential decree granting collective clemency. The decree, issued on August 14, 2026, aims to decongest prisons and provide relief to inmates. The released prisoners were handed over to their families in a ceremony at the detention center. The event was attended by local and traditional authorities, heads of deconcentrated services, and family members of the beneficiaries.
The ceremony was presided over by Ahmat Abdallah Fadoul, the government's delegate to the Mandoul province. In his speech, Fadoul emphasized that the presidential clemency is a discretionary power of the President of the Republic. He encouraged the released inmates to take responsibility for their future and change their behavior to contribute to the development of the province. Fadoul also highlighted the importance of reintegration centers in supporting the inmates' rehabilitation.
Baidjé Grégoire, the director of the Koumra detention center, expressed gratitude to the Mandoul authorities for their support in managing the prison population. He noted that the decree helps alleviate overcrowding at the facility. Grégoire praised the authorities for their efforts in providing assistance to inmates and facilitating their rehabilitation.
Nimané Nicolas, the prosecutor of the Republic at the Koumra court, cautioned the released inmates that the clemency does not erase their convictions. He advised them to make the most of their second chance and avoid recidivism. Nicolas encouraged the inmates to engage in productive activities and seek employment to reintegrate into society.
The prosecutor also offered words of wisdom to the released inmates, urging them to return to their villages and seek employment. He emphasized the importance of staying engaged and avoiding idleness, which can lead to further trouble. Nicolas' advice was aimed at helping the inmates make a smooth transition back into their communities.
The released inmates received certificates and expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic and the provincial authorities. The ceremony marked a significant step towards rehabilitation and reintegration for the beneficiaries. The event concluded with a sense of hope and renewal for the released inmates and their families.
The clemency decree is part of a broader effort to address prison overcrowding and promote rehabilitation in Chad. The release of the 21 inmates from Koumra prison brings relief to their families and communities. The government's initiative aims to provide a second chance to inmates and support their reintegration into society.
Key points
- Twenty-one inmates were released from Koumra prison under a presidential decree granting collective clemency.
- The decree aims to decongest prisons and provide relief to inmates in Chad.
- The released inmates were encouraged to take responsibility for their future and change their behavior to contribute to the development of the province.
