I am deeply alarmed by the reports that dozens of demonstrators have been killed in Chad after the ruling Transitional Military Council extended their original 18-month transition period. The United States condemns this violence, and urges authorities and law enforcement to respect the right of Chadians to assemble peacefully and pursue their aspirations for a transition to a peaceful, inclusive, civilian-led government. We join with our partners in the international community in appealing for calm, and call for the members of the Transitional Military Council to commit themselves to the peaceful and democratic resolution of Chad’s long-running governance crisis, including by honoring the directive of the African Union Peace and Security Council and their own public declarations not to stand in the upcoming elections.
The United States will continue to support the people of Chad in their pursuit of a civilian government elected via a free and fair process that respects the human rights and dignity of all Chadians.