Chad
The Republic of Chad is a landlocked country in Central Africa, and the fifth largest African country by area. There are over 15 million inhabitants living in the country today.
France conquered the territory of Chad in the 1920s, and the country gained its independence from France in 1960, under the François Tombalbaye. Political violence is well-documented in the country. The President dominates the political system in the country, and has the power to appoint a Prime Minister and cabinet. The President is also highly influential in appointment of judges, officials, and generals. Presidential elections take place every 5-years, and the President is elected in by popular vote.
Diverse social structures are prominent, as there are over 200 ethnic groups residing in the country. Over 100 languages and dialects are spoken, in addition to the official languages of French and Arabic. Many religions are prominent in Chad.
Chad’s judicial system is based on French Civil law. The highest jurisdictions are the Supreme Court and Constitutional Council. The Parliament is comprised of the 155-member national assembly, who are elected for 4-year terms. The President holds significant power over the National Assembly, and his party, Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), guides decision making processes in this realm.
Corruption within the government is highly visible at all levels, and in 2005 the Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index named Chad as the world’s most corrupt country. With 80% of the population living below the national poverty line, Chad is ranked as the world’s 7th poorest country. The country is a member of the Bank of Central African States, the Organization for Harmonization of Business Law in Africa, and the Customs and Economic Union of Central Africa.
The National Law Review covers the latest stories, news, and developments from the country of Chad, and Central Africa. Immigration news and travel bans, oil, environmental, and energy/resources news, are among the stories visitors can find on the National Law Review. International relations worldwide, and how these relations affect the country, and the continent of Africa, are topics which readers can find when visiting NLR website.