Freedom and Democracy Day
Tuesday, December 1, 2026
Every 1 December is Freedom and Democracy Day in Chad, in commemoration of the day in 1990 when dictator Hissene Habre fell from power and democratic rule was restored to the country. In 2026, Freedom and Democracy Day falls on Tuesday 1 December. The holiday will be on Wednesday 1 December in 2027. In 1982, Hissene Habre rose to power and began an eight-year long regime characterised by oppression and abuse of power. He routinely violated the rights of the people, spied on the populace through secret police, and often tortured and killed his opponents. Finally, in late 1989, a revolt broke out against Habre’s tyrannical rule. By 1 December, 1990, he was overthrown and fled to Senegal to live in exile. The next day, rebel leader Idriss Deby became Chad’s new president.
History
In 1982, Hissene Habre rose to power and began an eight-year long regime characterised by oppression and abuse of power This observance marks an important moment in history, observed annually as a day of reflection and commemoration.
How It's Celebrated
The holiday will be on Wednesday 1 December in 2027 People observe this day with various traditional activities and customs.