Idriss Deby signed the criminalization of homosexuality in Chad into law, with the measure being supported by the former prime minister of the country, Delwa Kassire Coumakoye, who was PM from 1993 to 1995 and from 2007 to 2008.
On 8 May 2017, the new penal code was enacted by the President Idriss Deby. Previous to that there were no restrictions. In supporting the law, the former Prime Minister Delwa Kassire Coumakoye argued a religious motivation: "Homosexuality is condemned by all religions. After serving as a minister in the government during the 1980s and early 1990s; he was Prime Minister of Chad from November 6, 1993 to April 8, 1995 and again from February 26, 2007 to April 16, 2008. 
