As Chad marks the 65th anniversary of its independence, the political party Les Transformateurs has paid tribute to the country’s founding generation while vehemently condemning the conviction of its leader, Dr. Succès Masra.
The party describes the verdict as a “judicial ignominy” and a stark injustice overshadowing the national celebrations.
In a statement released on Monday, Les Transformateurs honoured “the sacrifices of the founding fathers and mothers” and expressed a firm commitment to uphold their legacy of freedom “in justice and equality.”
However, this solemn commemoration has been marred by the decision of the N’Djamena Criminal Court on August 9, which sentenced Dr. Masra to 20 years in prison and ordered him to pay one billion CFA francs in damages to the state.
The party rejects the court’s ruling, which it says is grounded in a “total lack of evidence” regarding Dr. Masra’s alleged involvement in the tragic events that unfolded in Mandakao.
The statement also highlighted the “courageous and tenacious” efforts of the legal team, who stood “not for one man but for an entire people living under the weight of injustice since 1960,” despite facing persistent “threats and intimidation.”
Les Transformateurs further lauded the “discipline and resilience” of its supporters, who maintained a peaceful sit-in outside the party headquarters for 88 consecutive days in protest.
The party called on citizens to “stand tall and dignified in the face of injustice,” reaffirming its motto: “When the road is hard, only the tough lead the way.”
As Chad reflects on its independence, the controversy surrounding Succès Masra’s conviction highlights the ongoing struggle over justice and political freedom in the country’s evolving democratic journey.
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