The return of Chadian opponent Succès Masra, initially scheduled for October 18, was postponed until early November due to fears of clashes. Success Masra, who fled the country after the violent repression of a demonstration a year ago, wanted to return to commemorate “Black Thursday” and honor the memory of the victims. However, taking into account the potential risks and the indications of the ECCAS facilitator, he decided to postpone his return in order to promote reconciliation and justice.
Despite an international arrest warrant issued against him, Succès Masra claims to have no fear of being arrested upon his arrival. He expresses his respect for the judicial institution of his country and says he is ready to answer before the courts. According to him, the arrest warrant is purely political and has no legitimacy.
Black Thursday remains a landmark date in Chad’s history, with the brutal repression of the protest leading to the deaths of many people. Success Masra believes that there has been a deep rupture and tear in the country, and he calls for national reconciliation based on justice and equality.
Speaking of a reconciliation agreement that was on the table, Succès Masra affirms that the hope of reconciliation has not disappeared despite the arrest warrant. It proposes a five-point document aimed at creating conditions of legal, political security and freedom, as well as promoting reconciliation and allowing the Chadian people to freely choose their leaders.
Regarding the constitutional referendum on the decentralized unitary state planned in two months, Succès Masra indicates that the project as it currently stands is not the best completed and hopes that it can be amended and improved before be put to a vote. He has not yet commented on his position (yes, no, abstention).
Finally, regarding the withdrawal of French soldiers from Niger and their passage through Chad to reach France, Succès Masra affirms that there are lessons to be learned from these recurring moves and calls for relations based on the fight against terrorism and security, while avoiding symbols of the past.
It is interesting to note that Succès Masra also points to a possible evacuation of French troops stationed in Chad, believing that effectiveness does not lie only in a permanent physical presence, but in concerted and informed actions.