Chad’s former Prime Minister and prominent opposition leader, Succes Masra, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of disseminating racist and xenophobic messages that allegedly incited violence, his lawyer confirmed on Saturday.
Masra, a vocal critic of President Mahamat Idriss Déby, briefly served as prime minister in Déby’s interim government for about five months before resigning to contest the May 2024 presidential election. His conviction stems from events in May, when violent clashes in the southern town of Mandakao left dozens dead.
According to prosecutors, Masra’s remarks and political activities played a role in inflaming tensions that led to the deadly confrontation. In addition to his prison term, he has been ordered to pay a fine of 1 billion CFA francs (approximately $1.8 million).
Masra’s lawyer, Kadjilembaye Francis, rejected the charges, describing them as politically motivated and part of an effort to silence one of Chad’s most influential opposition figures. “We plan to appeal this decision,” Francis said, adding that the defence team believes the trial lacked impartiality and transparency.
The case comes amid heightened political tensions in Chad, a country grappling with instability and a fragile democratic transition following the 2021 death of long-time ruler Idriss Déby Itno. His son, Mahamat Idriss Déby, assumed power as interim president and has since faced criticism from opposition parties and rights groups over alleged repression of dissent.
Masra’s sentencing is likely to further inflame political divisions in the central African nation. His supporters claim the conviction is an attempt to sideline him ahead of any potential future elections, pointing to his growing popularity and his strong showing during the May vote despite limited campaign freedom.
International human rights organisations have in the past accused Chad’s authorities of using the judiciary to target political opponents. Observers warn that the verdict could draw criticism from Western partners and regional bodies pushing for democratic reforms in Chad.
For now, Masra remains in custody as his legal team prepares an appeal, setting the stage for a high-profile legal battle that could have significant implications for the country’s political future.
