Human Rights Watch (HRW) has strongly criticized the 20-year prison sentence handed down to Succès Masra, the leader of Chad’s main opposition party. The rights organization described the trial as politically motivated, lacking in fairness and transparency. This verdict was issued amidst increasing political tensions which escalated following the presidential elections in May 2024, where allegations of vote rigging and intimidation were rampant.

The trial of Masra, which concluded on August 9, was marred by procedural irregularities including limited access for defense counsel and the use of contentious evidence. HRW argues that such practices not only undermine the credibility of Chad’s judiciary but also violate international human rights standards. According to the organization, this ruling sends a chilling message to journalists, activists, and political figures, reinforcing a climate of fear and repression.

Masra was arrested on May 16 by security forces at his home in N’Djamena, following his alleged incitement of hatred and violence through social media. This was in the wake of deadly clashes between herders and farmers in the south, which resulted in at least 42 fatalities. HRW contends that the charges against Masra were exaggerated and were a response to his vocal criticism of the government. His party, Les Transformateurs, has consistently argued that such legal actions are aimed at intimidating and judicially harassing the opposition.

The backdrop to this verdict is a broader pattern of state repression in Chad. Security forces have been repeatedly accused of using excessive force, making arbitrary arrests, and mistreatment of detainees. A related HRW investigation highlighted deaths and abuses at Koro Toro prison, emphasizing the systemic impunity and the government’s failure to ensure accountability for abuses by security forces.

International experts and legal observers have called on Chad’s international partners to exert pressure on the government to overturn Masra’s conviction and to respect fundamental freedoms. They caution that allowing such politically motivated prosecutions to proceed could further erode public trust in governmental institutions and isolate Chad internationally.

As Masra’s legal team gears up for an appeal, the global community watches closely. This case could potentially serve as a litmus test for Chad’s judiciary to demonstrate independence from political interference and to adhere to its constitutional and international obligations.