Supreme Court decision seals Masra’s fate

The highest judicial authority in Chad has delivered its final verdict. On May 21, the Supreme Court rejected the appeal filed by Succès Masra, confirming his 20-year prison sentence for alleged hate speech, xenophobic incitement, and complicity in murder. Speaking outside the courtroom, his defense lawyer Francis Kadjilembaye expressed dismay at the ruling. “Despite presenting robust legal arguments, the Supreme Court chose to uphold the original conviction,” he stated.

International watchdogs cry foul over politically motivated trial

Human Rights Watch has labeled Masra’s prosecution a politically orchestrated show trial. The organization condemned the government’s unrelenting crackdown on dissent. Security forces maintained a heavy presence around the Supreme Court building in N’Djamena, with several journalists reportedly denied entry to the hearing.

Political repression intensifies in Chad

This verdict arrives at a critical juncture. Earlier this month, eight opposition figures were handed eight-year prison terms—many on charges of insurrection. Authorities also dissolved the country’s largest opposition coalition just days before these convictions. Activists report systematic intimidation, with public protests frequently banned. The tension escalated at the end of April when police fatally shot a member of Les Transformateurs—Masra’s party—during a rally demanding his release.

From critic to prime minister and back to prisoner

Succès Masra, an economist educated in France and Cameroon, rose to prominence as the president’s most vocal challenger. In 2024, he was unexpectedly appointed Prime Minister before resigning to contest the presidential election. Official tallies placed President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno at 61.3% against Masra’s 18.5%, though the opposition leader contested the results, claiming victory.