Dr Sitack Yombatinan Béni, the second vice-president of Chad’s opposition Transformers party, has announced his resignation, three days after the party’s leader, Succès Masra, was sentenced to 20 years in prison.
The move marks another significant shake-up in the party’s leadership amid mounting political tensions.
In a statement posted on social media on August 12, Dr. Béni reflected on his six years of service within the party, emphasizing his commitment to core values.
“After 6 years of struggle and combat around the principles and values of equality, justice, dignity and truth, I decided, this day, August 12, 2025, in full conscience, lucidity, freedom, independence and after a cold analysis of the work accomplished, to resign from my position as vice-president of the Transformers and from the Party,” he wrote.
Dr. Béni, who has been a prominent figure in the party since its creation in 2017, stated that he intends to refocus on his professional pursuits in research, teaching, and consultancy.
“I want to devote myself entirely to my initial activities of research, teaching and consultancy,” he said, while adding that he will continue to advocate for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
The resignation comes at a critical juncture for the Transformers party.
Its leader, Succès Masra, was sentenced on August 9, 2025, after being accused of inciting the Mandakao massacre. The legal proceedings and heavy sentence have intensified pressure on the party and contributed to internal fractures.
In response to Dr. Béni’s departure, the party publicly acknowledged his resignation and wished him well. “Good luck,” the statement read. Meanwhile, Chad’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Abdoulaye Sabre Fadoul, commented: “When you feel useless and despised, the only option is to leave. God will take care of the rest.”
Dr. Béni’s exit is the fourth high-profile resignation from the party since 2017, following previous departures including that of vice-president Moustapha Masri after the events of October 20, 2022. Analysts suggest that these resignations reflect growing challenges within the opposition as it navigates political repression and legal scrutiny.
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