The Supreme Court of Chad has delivered its final verdict, upholding a 20-year prison sentence against opposition leader Succès Masra. The decision, confirmed on Thursday, closes the legal chapter on one of the country’s most prominent political figures after his appeal was dismissed.
The ruling comes over two years after the initial judgment, which found Masra and more than 70 associates guilty of racist and xenophobic incitement, criminal association, and complicity in murder related to the Mandakao massacre. The charges stem from a violent episode that shook the nation, prompting widespread debate over accountability and justice.
The defense team, led by attorney Kadjilembaye Francis, argued vigorously for acquittal, but the Supreme Court justices stood firm. With no further domestic appeals possible, the sentence is now irreversible unless a presidential pardon intervenes. Masra’s legal team has indicated they may explore international avenues, though such recourse remains uncertain.
Supporters of the Les Transformateurs party have decried the verdict as politically motivated and unjust, vowing to continue advocating for Masra’s release. The case has drawn international attention, with human rights observers questioning the fairness of the proceedings and the severity of the penalties imposed.
