Chad’s Opposition Politician Gets 20 Years In ‘Chilling Message’

Human Rights Watch has condemned the 20-year sentence handed down to opposition leader Succes Masra, describing the charges against him as politically motivated. A court in Ndjamena found Masra guilty of “spreading racist and xenophobic messages” and of complicity in the deaths of dozens of people in an intercommunal violence.

The rights group said Masra’s sentencing sends a “chilling message” to critics and demonstrates the government’s intolerance to criticism and political opposition. “The courts should not be used for such political purposes,” HRW’s Central Africa director, Lewis Mudge, said.

Masra was arrested on May 16 and accused of inciting hatred and violence through his social media posts after intercommunal clashes killed 42 people.