Following the sentencing of eight Chadian opposition leaders to eight years in prison, Alifa Younous Mahamat has sharply criticized President Mahamat Idriss Déby’s government for what he describes as political repression disguised as justice. The leaders, members of the Groupe de concertation des acteurs politiques (GCAP), were convicted after attempting to organize a peaceful protest that authorities had banned.

Justice weaponized against political opponents

Younous Mahamat condemned the ruling, calling it « a blatant misuse of the judicial system to silence opposition voices. » He warned that this case reflects Chad’s dangerous slide toward authoritarianism, where fear and repression stifle dissent. « The government is imposing a single narrative through force, » he stated.

Systematic silencing of dissent

For the PSF coordinator, the imprisonment of GCAP leaders is part of a broader strategy to neutralize credible opposition. « In Chad, any voice of dissent is systematically and completely crushed, » he declared. He emphasized that fundamental freedoms—including freedom of expression, assembly, and association—are severely restricted. « Opposition parties cannot operate freely; they cannot hold meetings, organize, or even express their views without fear of reprisal, » he explained.

This crackdown follows the 20-year prison sentence handed to Sucès Masra, a prominent opposition figure and former Prime Minister, nearly a year ago.

Chadian diaspora amplifies the call for justice

From exile in France and Europe, the Chadian diaspora is working to draw international attention to the crisis. « We are the voice of those who cannot speak, » Younous Mahamat said, stressing the need for a strong response from the international community. « We are engaging with human rights organizations and political leaders to demand accountability, » he added, noting meetings with French lawmakers, including representatives of La France insoumise and its leader, Jean-Luc Mélenchon.

International pressure as a last resort

With opposition leaders jailed and freedoms curtailed, Younous Mahamat believes that global pressure is now the most effective tool to challenge the regime’s tightening grip. « The world must act before Chad’s democracy is erased entirely, » he warned.