**Chad Clears the Air on Allegations of Repression by Security Services** The Chadian government has responded to recent accusations of human rights abuses by its security services. Civil society organisations, including the Chadian League of Human Rights and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT), raised these concerns at the United Nations earlier this month. According to the Chadian government, any alleged abuses are promptly referred to the courts. In a recent interview, Justice Minister and Human Rights Minister Youssouf Tom acknowledged that abuses can occur, but insisted that the judicial system addresses them. He stated that individuals accused of wrongdoing are handed over to the justice system for investigation and prosecution. Tom also pointed out that even developed countries have intelligence services, but the key is to ensure proper oversight. This response comes in the wake of a UN review of Chad's implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Experts at the Human Rights Council in Geneva raised concerns about excessive use of force, impunity for security forces, and repression during protests on October 20, 2022, which were labelled as "Black Thursday". The protests, which were mainly led by youths, were against a move by military president Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno to extend his tenure. Human rights groups reported around 200 enforced disappearances and 600 arrests, including 80 minors, during the protests. In response to the allegations, the Chadian government is appealing for objectivity and fairness, urging the international community to consider the context of the country's challenges.