Chad opposition coalition condemns authoritarian drift ahead of protests

The political arm of the Wakit Tama movement has intensified its warnings about what it describes as the country’s escalating authoritarian slide. Ahead of the planned peaceful protest on May 16, 2026, movement leaders held a press conference to voice their concerns over the government’s alleged crackdown on freedoms and democratic institutions.

Journalists praised as defenders of truth amid repression

The movement acknowledged the vital role of Chadian journalists, calling them “a bulwark against forgetting and lies.” Despite facing intimidation, repression, and mounting pressure, they continue to expose abuses under the administration of President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno. Wakit Tama emphasized that independent media remains the last line of defense in a climate where accountability is increasingly compromised.

Political prisoners and justice system under scrutiny

The coalition condemned the recent sentencing of eight opposition leaders from the GCAP coalition to eight years in prison, labeling the verdict as “outrageous.” Wakit Tama accused the judiciary of being weaponized to silence dissent, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of all political detainees—including former Prime Minister Succès Masra and other activists held for their opinions.

International silence criticized

Wakit Tama also expressed frustration with human rights organizations and foreign partners for their perceived inaction in response to alleged violations of fundamental freedoms in Chad. The movement argued that the international community’s silence emboldens the government’s repressive tactics.

The coalition reaffirmed its call for nationwide protests on May 16, declaring that the people of Chad refuse to accept injustice, fear, or the erosion of their rights. “The Chadian people seek neither privileges nor favors—only justice, liberty, dignity, and the respect of human rights,” stated the movement’s spokesperson.

As the protest date approaches, tensions continue to rise, with Wakit Tama vowing to amplify its demands for political reform and an end to what it describes as the regime’s authoritarian excesses.