On November 2, 2026, the Union of Chadian Journalists (UJT) marked the International Day for the End of Impunity for Crimes Committed Against Journalists by releasing a statement. The UJT urged authorities to investigate and resolve cases of journalists killed or missing in Chad. The union emphasized the need for greater protection for journalists facing threats and intimidation. This call to action highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Chad.
The UJT paid tribute to journalists killed, missing, or victims of violence while performing their duties. The union expressed solidarity with the families of affected journalists and those continuing to seek truth and justice. In Chad, the UJT specifically mentioned the unresolved cases of Narcisse Oredjé, killed in October 2022, and Noubadoum Sotinan, missing in Cameroon for over ten years. The lack of resolution in these cases prolongs the suffering of their families and contributes to a climate of insecurity within the profession.
The UJT also denounced intimidation against journalist Stéphane Ouaye. The union demanded an end to pressure against him and called for guarantees of his safety. According to the UJT, no journalist should face threats or intimidation due to their work. The union stressed that crimes and violence against journalists must be investigated and prosecuted. Impunity undermines press freedom, encourages self-censorship, and denies citizens their right to information.
To address these threats, the UJT requested that authorities adopt a proposed law on journalist protection and security. The union also called for independent, impartial, and thorough investigations into Narcisse Oredjé's death and Noubadoum Sotinan's disappearance. Additionally, the UJT sought concrete measures to protect Stéphane Ouaye. The union emphasized the importance of effective prevention, alert, and protection mechanisms to ensure journalists can work freely and safely across the country.
The UJT's demands reflect the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Chad. The union's efforts aim to ensure that journalists can perform their duties without fear of violence or intimidation. By advocating for the adoption of a law on journalist protection, the UJT seeks to strengthen the safety and security of journalists in Chad.
The cases of Narcisse Oredjé and Noubadoum Sotinan remain unresolved. The UJT's call for action highlights the need for authorities to take concrete steps to address these cases. The union's efforts aim to bring closure to the families of affected journalists and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The fight against impunity is crucial to defending press freedom in Chad. The UJT's demands reflect the union's commitment to protecting journalists and promoting a safe and secure environment for the media. By working together, the UJT and authorities can help ensure that journalists in Chad can perform their duties freely and without fear of reprisal.
Key points
- The Union of Chadian Journalists demands answers on unsolved cases of journalists killed or missing.
- The UJT calls for the adoption of a law on journalist protection and security.
- The fight against impunity is crucial to defending press freedom in Chad.
