Chad's Former Prime Minister Arrested Amidst Clash Violence Allegations

Sat Oct 18 2025 10:20:53 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Succès Masra, a notable opposition figure, faces arrest over suspected ties to deadly clashes in Chad.

Succès Masra, the former Prime Minister of Chad and a vocal opponent of President Mahamat Déby, was arrested by military personnel following violent clashes in the southwest region of the country. The public prosecutor alleges that Masra disseminated incendiary messages on social media linked to the unrest that led to the deaths of at least 42 individuals. His political party condemned the detention as unlawful, asserting that Masra was “kidnapped” without following judicial procedures. The violence reportedly stemmed from land disputes between local farmers and herders, exacerbated by existing tensions in the region.

Masra had previously claimed to defeat Déby in the last elections, despite official results showing Déby’s victory. The recent clashes are part of an ongoing cycle of violence in Chad, reflecting deep-seated issues between agricultural and pastoral communities.

In light of the unrest, over 80 additional arrests have taken place. The Déby family has been in power for over 30 years, with Mahamat Déby taking charge following the death of his father in 2021.