The climate of press freedom is deteriorating further in Chad. On Monday, January 12, 2026, Dimanche Isaak Kassaltna , former representative of the High Authority for Media and Audiovisual (HAMA) in Pala, was abducted from his office by agents of the General Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation (DGRI).

A kidnapping amid political tensions

Currently detained at CSP3, Mr. Kassaltna is being deprived of all contact with his family. This abduction appears to be directly linked to his online activism: he had recently criticized the dissolution of the Kodomma International association on social media.

His close ties to Allari Koné (or Allah-Ridy Koné), an influential leader in Mayo-Kebbi East and an opponent of the Prime Minister's office, appear to be at the heart of his troubles. This relationship had already cost him his position at HAMA last year.

The DGRI is increasing the pressure

In parallel with this arrest, journalist Azoudoum Aweina Jedeon was briefly but forcefully detained. DGRI agents attempted to use subterfuge to locate Jedeon before pressuring him to reveal the whereabouts of a colleague. This colleague is wanted for having denounced Allari Koné's forced resignation on TikTok.

“Jedeon was arrested at his office by agents [...] They used one of his acquaintances, employing subterfuge,” a source close to the case explained. Despite the pressure, the journalist reportedly refused to cooperate.

A rapidly shrinking civic space

These events are taking place within a context of increased repression in Chad:

1. Press muzzling: Critical journalists face surveillance, arbitrary arrests or exile.
2. Protest ban: While marches in support of the government are regulated, any protest is systematically repressed.
3. Dissolution of associations: The Ministry of Territorial Administration is increasing the number of dissolution orders against organizations deemed dissident.

These actions by the DGRI, although intended to protect national security, raise serious concerns about Chad's respect for its international commitments regarding human rights and freedom of expression .