Supreme Court rejects Succès Masra’s appeal
The country’s highest judicial authority has dismissed all legal challenges filed by Masra’s defense team. Speaking outside the courtroom, lead attorney Me Francis Kadjilembaye confirmed the decision, stating: “Despite presenting compelling legal arguments, the Supreme Court chose to uphold the original verdict.” Masra was initially arrested in May 2025 and later sentenced in August of the same year to 20 years in prison on charges of “disseminating hateful and xenophobic messages” and “complicity in murder.”
Human rights groups condemn politically motivated trial
Human Rights Watch has labeled the proceedings against Masra as a “politically driven prosecution,” highlighting what it describes as the government’s growing intolerance toward dissent. Security forces maintained a heavy presence around the Supreme Court building during Thursday’s hearing, with several journalists reportedly denied entry to the proceedings.
Escalating repression of opposition voices in Chad
This ruling comes at a time when Chad’s political climate remains increasingly volatile. Earlier this month, eight opposition leaders were handed eight-year prison sentences—primarily for charges related to insurrection. Authorities also dissolved the country’s largest opposition coalition just days before these convictions were handed down. Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the government of systematic intimidation and bans on public demonstrations. Earlier in April, a member of the opposition party Les Transformateurs—led by Masra—was fatally shot by police during a protest demanding the activist’s release.
From opposition leader to Prime Minister
An economist educated in France and Cameroon, Succès Masra rose to prominence as one of President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s most vocal critics before being appointed Prime Minister in 2024. During the presidential election held that same year, Masra ran against the incumbent, who officially secured 61.3% of the vote compared to Masra’s 18.5%. Masra has since contested these results, alleging electoral irregularities and claiming victory.
