Chad Roundup: Release of Succès Masra, special status of teachers, intercommunal violence

Release of Succès Masra

Several human rights associations issued a strong public appeal demanding the release of opposition leader Succès Masra, whose arrest and sentencing have sparked widespread criticism. The groups accused the Chadian authorities of perpetuating “arbitrariness and terror” through politically motivated detentions and the repression of dissenting voices. The arrest has deepened concerns about Chad’s democratic trajectory following the transition period. Activists argue that detaining political opponents undermines commitments promised during national dialogues and transitional reforms.

“Chad Connection 2030” Plan

In contrast to the political tensions, the National Assembly issued a statement congratulating President Mahamat Idriss Déby for the progress of the PND “Chad Connection 2030” development program. Lawmakers highlighted what they described as significant financial mobilisation and major achievements in infrastructure and governance reforms. The endorsement signals strong parliamentary support for the president’s long-term national development agenda, which aims to modernise key sectors and improve economic resilience. Observers note that the praise comes at a time when the government is looking to strengthen political legitimacy amid rising criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups.

Intercommunal violence

The opposition party Les Transformateurs publicly condemned recent outbreaks of intercommunal violence, urging authorities to take urgent steps to protect communities and prevent further escalation. The party emphasised the need for justice, accountability, and dialogue, saying that repeated cycles of violence—often triggered by disputes over land or resources—are becoming a pressing national security issue. Party leaders accused the government of failing to address the root causes of the clashes and warned that without stronger action, localised conflicts could destabilise broader regions of the country.

Special status of teachers

In governance and education reform news, the government adopted a new decree revising the special status of teachers. The reform aims to improve working conditions, streamline career management, and address long-standing grievances raised by teachers’ unions. The decree is expected to impact teacher recruitment, promotions, and remuneration frameworks. Education stakeholders say the changes could help reduce recurring strikes and strengthen the education sector—but also caution that implementation will be key to restoring trust between educators and the state.

Detention of LTDH team in Lac Province

Human rights groups united to denounce what they described as the “sequestration” of a team from the Chadian League of Human Rights (LTDH) in the Lac province. Reports indicate that LTDH members were detained while conducting field investigations. The coalition of associations condemned the incident as a violation of humanitarian and civil liberties protections and demanded an immediate explanation from authorities. They warned that obstruction of human rights monitoring undermines transparency, accountability, and public trust—especially in regions affected by security tensions.