Chad: Political Opponents Freed
[HRW] New York -- Conviction of Former Prime Minister, Political Opponents Should Be Vacated
Human Rights Watch has called on Chadian authorities to vacate the conviction of former Prime Minister and main opposition leader, Succès Masra. Masra was released from prison on August 15, 2026, following a presidential pardon, but his conviction remains in place. The pardon and release of eight other political opponents is a step in the right direction, said Lewis Mudge, Central Africa director at Human Rights Watch.
However, the convictions and financial penalties still stand, preventing Masra from continuing his political participation. Masra was arrested in May 2025 for inciting hatred and violence following intercommunal clashes in Logone Occidental province, which left 42 people dead. He pleaded not guilty to the charges. Masra and the eight GCAP leaders from Chad's main opposition coalition were pardoned alongside him, but their convictions and fines remain.
The Chadian authorities must set aside the convictions and release all those involved to allow them to resume their political activities.
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