In response to a formal complaint filed by magistrates against the Minister of Public Security for remarks deemed offensive to their profession, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno has publicly stood by his cabinet member.

The Head of State emphasized the importance of free speech within a democratic framework, noting that criticism—whether from citizens or public officials—must remain within legal boundaries. He cautioned that a refusal to accept criticism from judges could undermine the foundational principles of civic trust and governance.

Highlighting his commitment to judicial independence, the President disclosed that he would no longer preside over the Superior Council of the Judiciary, signaling a clear separation between executive and judicial oversight.

The Head of State went further to clarify the Minister’s stance: “The Minister of Public Security did not criticize the justice system as a whole, nor did he attack individual magistrates.”

While acknowledging the role of trade unions in democratic societies, he stressed that defending an individual or group should never extend to endorsing actions that violate ethical standards or the core values of justice. His remarks came after a widely circulated video showed the Minister publicly condemning what he described as flawed judicial decisions, vowing to challenge what he termed “false court orders.”