The Chadian political landscape is heating up as the opposition movement Wakit Tama gears up for a major public rally scheduled for May 16. The group has sharply criticized what it describes as the country’s alarming authoritarian shift under President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno.
During a press conference held ahead of the demonstration, Wakit Tama leaders highlighted the vital role of Chadian journalists, calling them « the last line of defense against forgetting and deception ». They emphasized the mounting pressures and repression journalists face in their mission to expose government misconduct.
a growing political crisis
The movement’s spokesperson, Abdelazim Mht Abakar, framed the upcoming protest as a necessary response to the « gravity of the political crisis » crippling the nation. He accused the ruling regime of systematically silencing dissent, pointing to the recent eight-year prison sentences handed down to eight political figures from the GCAP coalition.
Wakit Tama condemned these verdicts as « outrageous », arguing that Chad’s judicial system has been co-opted by those in power. The group demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Succès Masra and other detained activists.
demanding justice and freedoms
The opposition coalition did not mince words in denouncing the apparent silence of human rights organizations and international partners regarding human rights violations in Chad. « The Chadian people are not asking for favors or privileges—they are demanding justice, freedom, dignity, and the respect of fundamental rights, » Abakar declared.
He concluded with a resolute call to action: « On May 16, the Chadian people will make their voices heard against injustice, fear, and the hijacking of their freedoms. »
As tensions rise, the stakes for the upcoming mobilization could not be higher, with observers closely watching whether the protest will gain nationwide traction or face further state crackdowns.
