Chad opposition group urges citizens to join may 16 protest against government crackdown

The Wakit Tama political movement has intensified its campaign against what it describes as dangerous authoritarian drift in Chad, as the country prepares for a major nationwide protest scheduled for May 16, 2026.

press conference exposes alleged judicial and media repression

At a packed press briefing in N’Djamena, Wakit Tama leaders condemned the Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno administration’s escalating crackdown on dissent, labeling recent court rulings and security measures as tools of political oppression.

The movement highlighted the recent eight-year prison sentences handed down to eight members of the GCAP coalition, calling the verdicts ‘scandalous’ and evidence of a politicized judiciary. Among those targeted is former Prime Minister Succès Masra, whose continued detention was described as ‘unjust and politically motivated’.

journalists praised as defenders of truth amid growing pressures

Wakit Tama paid tribute to Chad’s press corps, acknowledging their ‘vital role’ in resisting misinformation despite intimidation, censorship and violent crackdowns. ‘Journalists remain the last line of defense against forgetting and lies,’ stated a movement spokesperson.

The group also criticized the silence of human rights organizations and international partners, accusing them of failing to respond adequately to alleged violations of fundamental freedoms across the nation.

united call: justice, freedom and dignity for all chadians

In a defiant statement, Wakit Tama declared: ‘The Chadian people are not asking for favors—they are demanding justice, liberty, dignity and the respect of human rights.’

The movement renewed its appeal for mass participation in the upcoming protest, vowing to ‘make their voices heard’ against injustice, fear and the hijacking of freedoms. Organizers insist the mobilization will be peaceful but uncompromising, signaling growing public frustration with the government’s policies.

As the deadline approaches, the political climate in Chad remains tense, with Wakit Tama positioning itself as the leading voice of opposition in a rapidly deteriorating democratic landscape.