Bishops in Chad Condemn Violence and Call for Dialogue and Peace

In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 6, members of the Episcopal Conference of Chad (CET) say they were speaking out “with profound sadness” following violent intercommunal clashes in Dar Tama in the Wadi Fira region, violence in Guera, and an attack on the military base of Barka Toulorom in the Lake Chad region that claimed several lives.

“Our thoughts and prayers go to the bereaved families, the wounded, and all those affected by this tragedy,” the Catholic  Bishops say in the statement that CET President, Bishop Martin Waïngue Bani of the Catholic Diocese of Doba, signed. The Catholic Church leaders also condemn the killings, insisting that “human life is sacred and no one has the right to take it away.”

Calling on Chadians to reject violence, CET members warn that violent responses to disagreements only deepen divisions and worsen tensions within society. “Violence cannot be an acceptable response to our disagreements because it only worsens tensions and deepens divisions,” they say. Beyond the security crisis, the Catholic Bishops also raise alarm over what they describe as a “sudden deterioration” of the political situation in Chad following recent arrests of opposition figures and critical voices.

According to the Catholic Church leaders, the arrests undermine democratic values, freedom of expression, and respect for human rights. “These arrests call into question the democratic principles in our country, the importance of freedom of expression, and respect for human rights,” the Catholic Bishops say. They warn that such actions further weaken an already fragile social fabric and threaten peaceful coexistence among citizens.

CET members underscore the importance of cultural, political, and religious pluralism in building national unity and strengthening the rule of law. “Diversity is a strength rather than an obstacle in building strong national unity,” they say. The Catholic Church leaders urge citizens and authorities alike to reject exclusion, injustice, and violence, insisting that evil can only be overcome “by good, that is, respect for our differences, dialogue, and justice for all.”

Presenting dialogue as the only path forward, CET members call for sincere and inclusive discussions involving all stakeholders in the country. “We firmly believe that sincere and inclusive dialogue is the only way out of the current deadlock,” they say. The Catholic Bishops note that “it is imperative that all stakeholders engage in constructive discussions based on truth, mutual respect, and the search for peaceful solutions.”

They further emphasize that such dialogue is essential for reconciliation and lasting peace in Chad. CET members also appeal to authorities to act with “wisdom and restraint” and to create conditions favorable for reconciliation and national unity. “Peace is a precious good that we must preserve together. Together, united in diversity, let us work for a more just, more united, and peaceful Chad,” the Catholic Bishops say. They assure the people of Chad of their prayers amid the country’s ongoing social and political challenges.

Jude Atemanke – ACI Africa