Zen Bada, who previously served as Mayor of N’Djamena, was convicted in 2012 on charges of forgery, using false documents, and embezzlement of public funds and sentenced to five years in prison. Although pardoned in 2015, he was disqualified from participating in the 2024 legislative elections due to his criminal record.
This new amnesty removes the legal barriers to Zen Bada holding public office. However, the ordinance must still be approved by the National Assembly to become law.
Political observers in Chad believe that Zen Bada is likely to be appointed to the Senate. The Constitution allows the President of the Republic to appoint one-third of the 69 senators, and Zen Bada’s appointment would solidify his position within the ruling party.
CA/ac/lb/abj/APA