Chad political landscape is in turmoil following the arrest of former Prime Minister Succès Masra, now an opposition leader, on charges of inciting hatred and complicity in murder. Masra was arrested by judicial police on Friday morning in connection with deadly clashes in the southwestern region of Logone-Occidental, which resulted in 42 deaths.
Chad former Prime Minister and opposition leader, Succès Masra, was arrested at his home in N’Djamena, the capital city. Armed men took him away, and surveillance footage shows the incident.
Masra allegedly incited hatred through social media messages, calling on people to arm themselves, which contributed to the violent clashes in Chad.
Masra is also accused of inciting hatred related to deadly clashes in the south-western region of Logone-Occidental.
At least 41 people were killed and over 80 detained in the clashes, which were triggered by a land dispute.
Prosecutor Oumar Mahamat Kedelaye said investigations revealed Masra’s alleged involvement in the incident.
The Transformers party said Masra was kidnapped and demanded his unconditional release.
-The Transformers, a party has always advocated peaceful civic engagement, wishes to express its deep concern over this brutal action,” said Dr. Tog-Yeum Nagorngar, the party’s secretary general.
The party claims the arrest was done without following legal procedures and violates civil and political rights.
Masra, a critic of President Mahamat Déby, has called on his supporters to remain calm.
He came second in last year’s elections
Over 80 others have been arrested in connection with the unrest, with many identified as alleged perpetrators, co-perpetrators, or accomplices.
Government Response: Public prosecutor Oumar Mahamat Kedelaye stated that investigations revealed Masra’s alleged involvement in the incident and assured that all those involved would face justice.
Masra has a contentious history with President Mahamat Déby’s government, having gone into exile in 2022 after his party was banned amid a crackdown on protests.
Masra returned from exile and served as Prime Minister for five months in 2024 before resigning to pave the way for a new government.
The arrest highlights growing concerns over Chad’s democratic space and the government’s handling of opposition, with potential implications for the country’s stability