Tchad court confirms Succès Masra’s sentence amid opposition outrage

Chad’s Supreme Court delivered a final ruling on May 21, rejecting the appeal of former Prime Minister and opposition leader Succès Masra, thereby cementing his 20-year prison sentence. The decision has sparked immediate backlash from his supporters and political allies.

In an official statement, Les Transformateurs condemned what they described as a “missed opportunity for justice” to overturn the initial verdict handed down last year. The party labeled the entire legal process as politically motivated, arguing that the Supreme Court’s ruling reinforces the arbitrary detention of Masra, now in its 371st day, and serves as a deliberate attempt to silence a prominent opposition figure.

The opposition movement also criticized the judiciary for disregarding international calls for Masra’s release, justice, and adherence to the rule of law. Supporters have expressed growing concern over the former premier’s deteriorating health, warning of serious consequences if his condition continues to decline.

Masra was convicted on charges of criminal association and complicity in murder following the 2025 Mandakao massacre in western Logone province. With all domestic appeals exhausted, his legal team is now considering escalating the case to international courts for further review.