Tchad: Wakit Tama urges mass protest against authoritarian drift
The political wing of the Wakit Tama movement has intensified its call for a nationwide peaceful protest scheduled for May 16, 2026, condemning what it describes as a dangerous authoritarian slide under President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s administration.
Wakit Tama denounces political repression and demands justice
During a press briefing held ahead of the planned mobilization, the movement highlighted the critical role of Chadian journalists as « guardians against forgetting and lies, » despite facing « relentless pressure, intimidation, and repression. » The statement emphasized the gravity of the political crisis gripping the nation.
Legal crackdown on opposition figures condemned
Abdelazim Mht Abakar, spokesperson for Wakit Tama, accused the regime of weaponizing justice to target dissent. He specifically cited the recent eight-year prison sentences handed to eight political leaders from the GCAP coalition as a « scandalous » abuse of judicial power. The movement demanded the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Succès Masra and other detained activists.
The movement also criticized the silence of human rights organizations and international partners regarding the alleged violations of fundamental freedoms in Chad. « The Chadian people seek neither favors nor special treatment. They demand justice, liberty, dignity, and the respect of human rights, » declared the spokesperson.
Wakit Tama reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing the population on May 16, vowing to amplify the call for justice, freedom, and the restoration of democratic freedoms. « The people of Chad will make their voices heard against injustice, fear, and the hijacking of liberties, » the movement asserted.