« Our Patience Has Limits! » – Hundreds Rally in N’Djamena to Demand Release of Former Chadian PM Masra

N’Djamena, Chad July 20,2025

Hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Chad’s capital on Saturday, demanding the immediate release of former Prime Minister Dr. Succes Masra, who has been held in detention for 65 days amid growing accusations of political persecution.

Peaceful but Defiant Protest
Supporters of Masra’s party, The Transformers, gathered outside its headquarters, waving Chadian flags and chanting slogans. Placards reading « 65 days in prison » underscored their frustration over his prolonged detention without trial. The demonstration remained peaceful, with participants singing anthems and calling for justice.

Party Representative Sigue Weye Olivier delivered a stern warning to the government: “Dear government, release him while you have the time. To avoid the trial of shame of history, we have remained calm, disciplined, and peaceful. This is not a sign of weakness our patience has its limit.”

Judiciary Under Fire
Party Coordinator Mbaidedje Grace directly challenged the legal authorities, declaring: “To you, Mr. Prosecutor and Mr. Judge, the people are watching you, the world is watching you.”
The statement reflects deepening skepticism over the fairness of Masra’s case.

Strategic Adviser Djeguelmbaye Ndigngar condemned the detention as a “judicial tragedy,”alleging a complete lack of evidence. “He has been held for two months without any proof. The case is empty, yet Pilate seems to have washed his hands of it,”he said, drawing a sharp historical parallel to evade accountability.

Controversial Arrest and Charges
Masra, a prominent opposition figure and former prime minister, was arrested in May following violent clashes between security forces and protesters in October 2022, which left at least 42 dead. Authorities have charged him with inciting hatred, complicity in murder, arson, and supporting armed groups accusations his supporters dismiss as politically motivated.

The case has drawn scrutiny from human rights organizations, with concerns mounting over due process in Chad’s transitional government under President Mahamat Idriss Deby.

Government Silence Fuels Tensions
The Chadian government has yet to respond to the protests, but the growing demonstrations signal rising public discontent. Analysts warn that prolonged detention without credible evidence risks further unrest in a nation already grappling with political instability and security challenges.

As pressure builds, the international community watches closely, with calls for transparency growing louder. For now, Masra’s supporters vow to continue their fight, declaring that their patience
though wearing thin remains steadfast.

Emebet Asefa