Freedom And Democracy Day in Chad

Freedom and Democracy Day is an annual holiday in the Republic of Chad. This holiday falls on December 1st and commemorates Idriss Déby — a politician who became Chad’s President on this date in 1990. Prior to becoming President, he was known for not only his strategic skills in leading victories against rebel forces but was also known for his courage.

Even though Chad has had some turbulent times over the past few decades, this day is still widely observed in the country as a public holiday. Because it’s a public holiday, businesses and banks are closed on this day, as are government offices and schools.

The History Of Freedom And Democracy Day In Chad

In 1982, Hissene Habre became Chad’s President. This was during a time when the country was going through a particularly tough time. Not only was the country under military rule and was in the middle of a civil war, but the country was also at war with Libya. Because of all of the chaos in the country, many people were unhappy with Habre’s rule.

Then in 1989, his leading general, Idriss Déby, defected and left for Sudan. His intention was to begin the process of ousting President Habre. Déby was a well-liked figure because he had led a series of victories against rebel forces all throughout the 1980s. This earned him a reputation for being a shrewd tactician and for being courageous in the face of danger.

On December 1st, 1990, Déby toppled Habre in a coup that was supported by France’s secret service. That made him the 6th President of the country. After a few years in office, he would establish Chad’s first multi-party political system and would end up winning re-election. He would stay in office for 3-decades before dying in April of 2021.

Observing Freedom And Democracy Day In Chad

This holiday is not only a non-working day for most people, but it’s also a day when many people take part in festivals, parades, and other events that celebrate the spirit of this holiday.