Tchad opposition leader Succès Masra remains jailed after appeal rejection

The Supreme Court of Chad has upheld the 20-year prison sentence against former Prime Minister and opposition leader Succès Masra, deepening political tensions in N’Djamena. The decision, delivered on May 21, was announced by one of his lawyers following the hearing.

Supreme Court upholds harsh sentence for Masra

Me Francis Kadjilembaye, one of Masra’s attorneys, confirmed the rejection of the appeal, stating, « Despite presenting strong legal arguments, the Supreme Court chose to uphold the conviction. » Masra, arrested in May 2025, was originally sentenced in August 2024 to 20 years in prison on charges of spreading 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 motivated trial », highlighting what it describes as the government’s « intolerance toward dissent. » On the day of the ruling, a heavy security presence surrounded the Supreme Court building in N’Djamena, and several journalists were reportedly denied access to the hearing.

Political climate remains volatile in Chad

The Supreme Court’s decision arrives at a time of escalating political unrest in Chad. Earlier this month, eight opposition figures were handed eight-year prison sentences, primarily on charges of insurrection. Authorities also dissolved the country’s main opposition coalition just days before these convictions. Opposition parties have repeatedly accused the government of intimidation tactics and banning public protests.

In late April, a member of Les Transformateurs—the party led by Succès Masra—was killed by police during a demonstration demanding his release.

From opposition figure to Prime Minister

An economist trained in France and Cameroon, Masra emerged as a leading critic of President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno before being appointed Prime Minister in 2024. During the presidential election held the same year, he ran against the incumbent, who officially secured 61.3% of the vote compared to Masra’s 18.5%. Masra contested the results, claiming victory.