Chadian President pardons opposition leader

Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby has granted a pardon to his main political rival and opposition leader, Success Masra, who has been imprisoned for more than a year after being convicted of inciting violence and complicity in murder.

The presidency announced the decision on Friday, saying it had approved a request for clemency submitted by Masra’s lawyers.

Masra, a former prime minister and one of Chad’s most prominent opposition figures, was sentenced last year to 20 years in prison and fined 1 billion CFA francs ($1.77 million).

According to the presidency, Masra is expected to be released in the coming days. He will be freed alongside eight other political figures covered by the pardon.

“These nine individuals will be released as soon as the Ministry of Justice makes the necessary arrangements in the coming hours and days,” the presidency said. “They have been pardoned by the Head of State. However, the pardon does not waive the civil penalties, which remain enforceable.”

Masra was arrested in May last year over alleged links to deadly clashes in southwestern Chad. Authorities accused him of spreading hateful messages on social media and linked him to the violence.

The pardon comes four days after President Deby pledged to release several convicted individuals as part of efforts to promote national unity, peace, and reconciliation.

It remains unclear whether the move could open the door to renewed political dialogue between the government and the opposition. Chad continues to navigate a fragile political transition under President Deby.

SOURCE: AFP