Chad: exiled opposition leader named PM
Chad’s transitional President, General Mahamat Idris Deby Itno, has appointed former exiled leader of the Les Transformsteurs opposition political party, Succès Masra Prime Minister, head of the transitional government. The inofrmation was made public through a decree signed on January 1, 2024 by Itno and read on national television.
He thus becomes the first PM under Chad’s newly adopted 5th Republic Constitution.
Succès Masra’s appointment comes after Saleh Kebzabo’s government resigned on December 30.
Masra returned to Chad on November 3, 2023 alongside other opposition leaders after fleeing from violent repression when they carried out demonstrations last year, denouncing military rule. These protests had resulted in the deaths of about 50 people.
Masra only returned after reaching an agreement with the military regime headed by General Mahamat Idris Deby Itno.
The deal was turned down by other opposition leaders who have chosen to remain on exile. According to them, the deal allegedly includes an amnesty for those responsible for killing demonstrators last year.
Succès Masra is yet to react officially to his appointment.
