Sarkozy seeks to clarify fate of missing Chadian politician 16/04/2008 00:00

French president says he is determined to uncover the truth about the politician’s disappearance.

16 April 2008

PARIS - French President Nicolas Sarkozy told a Chadian opposition leader Tuesday that he was determined to clarify the fate of missing Chadian politician Ibni Oumar Mahamat Saleh, his office said.

Sarkozy told Lol Mahamat Choua, a former Chadian president and opponent of President Idriss Deby Itno, that he was "determined to ensure that full light is shed on the disappearance of Ibni Oumar Mahamat Saleh," said a statement from the French presidency.

A government-established inquiry commission to investigate the disappearances must "get to work without delay with the full support of the international community," the statement said.

Human rights groups and opposition politicians say Ibni Oumar, who was spokesman for the main Chadian opposition coalition, was severely beaten by government security forces after he was detained in February.

Sarkozy also renewed his call for dialogue with the opposition in Chad, a former French colony where troops pushed back an attack in early February by rebels supported by Sudan.

French troops provided fuel, food, aerial intelligence and Libyan ammunition to the Chadian army.

[AFP / Expatica]