Chad’s Former Prime Minister Reportedly Abducted by Military Forces

Succes Masra, Chad’s former prime minister, was reportedly abducted by military forces from his home on May 16, 2024. The incident highlights ongoing repression against political dissent under President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, who extended a transitional government by two years after his father’s death. Masra has been a vocal critic, with his party documenting the incident via social media.

In a shocking turn of events, Succes Masra, the former Prime Minister of Chad, was reportedly abducted from his home on the morning of May 16, 2024. Sources including Masra’s political party, Les Transformateurs, have confirmed that the abduction occurred at approximately 5:56 AM. His residence, which doubles as the party’s headquarters, was the site of this incident, raising concerns about the country’s political climate and the safety of opposition leaders.

A post on Masra’s official Facebook page conveyed the alarming news, stating he was forcibly taken by military personnel. The post included an unverified video showing Masra leaving his home in the company of several armed men dressed in military attire. This incident underscores Masra’s ongoing challenges against the current regime, particularly as an outspoken critic of President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno.

Masra, who held the prime ministerial position from January to May 2024, was in the running against Deby during the last presidential election. His campaign received some support, winning 18.5 percent of the vote compared to Deby’s 61.3 percent, although Masra has always claimed a moral victory. He has continuously positioned himself as an ardent opponent of Deby’s leadership, which began after Deby’s father, Idriss Deby Itno, died in battle.

When Idriss Deby was killed in 2021, the military swiftly appointed Mahamat Deby as transitional president. Initially, he pledged an 18-month timeframe for transitioning to democratic governance, but ultimately extended that period by an additional two years. Since his ascension, opposition figures like Masra have faced severe repression, with numerous dissenters either vanishing or opting for exile.

The political situation in Chad remains delicate. Following a controversial constitutional referendum in December 2023, which allowed for the continued consolidation of executive power, Mahamat Deby was elected president in May 2024. However, international observers have raised questions about the credibility of this electoral process, deeming it not credible under fair election standards.

The abduction of Succes Masra exemplifies the escalating tensions in Chad’s political landscape. As a prominent voice against Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, Masra’s forced removal raises serious concerns about the treatment of opposition leaders and the country’s transition to democracy. Continued scrutiny from the international community may be warranted, especially in light of the recent controversial election outcomes in Chad.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com