The Trap of Power, a Politicized Justice System, and the Rise of the H23 Movement
Political Analysis – Charilogone Editorial TeamChad stands at a critical crossroads in its political history. As President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s regime weakens under internal pressure and growing criticism, signs of authoritarian drift are becoming increasingly evident. Justice, meant to be the foundation of the rule of law, appears to be used more and more as a tool of political repression.
The sentencing of Dr. Succès Masra to 20 years in prison—widely seen as politically motivated—is a striking example. Former Prime Minister and leader of the Transformers party, Masra represents a peaceful, popular, and organized opposition. His refusal to resort to violence, despite provocation, has been praised as an act of courage. Yet this choice seems to have been exploited to sideline him from the political arena, revealing a strategy to neutralize influential figures.
This logic is echoed in the case of General Idriss Youssouf Boy, another key figure in Chad’s political landscape. A former senior official in the Defense and Security Forces and ex-chief of staff to the president, he was convicted of corruption and dismissed from the military. While the charges are serious, many observers see this as a political maneuver to silence a man who had become too powerful. His abrupt fall illustrates the regime’s anxiety toward its own allies who have grown inconvenient.
But the real turning point is coming from the streets. In response to a justice system seen as weak and manipulated, a new grassroots movement has emerged: H23, meaning Inhabitants of Chad’s 23 Provinces. This popular revolution, driven by a frustrated youth, transcends ethnic, religious, and political divisions. It embodies a collective will to end decades of injustice, marginalization, and repression. H23 is the cry of a united people who refuse oppression and aspire to a future built on dignity, justice, and shared prosperity.
Tragic events such as the horrific death of Fulbert, burned alive in Abéché, the killings in Mandakao, and targeted assassinations in Ouaddaï suggest a silent war within the system itself. Internal enemies—well-informed and manipulative—appear to be pushing the president toward unpopular decisions, further isolating him.
The Chadian people, witnessing what they perceive as sham trials, are beginning to question the sincerity of the regime. The idea that imprisoning political rivals will allow the president to govern unchallenged is a dangerous illusion. In politics, the absence of dissenting voices does not guarantee stability—it breeds isolation.
Had Dr. Masra chosen the path of force rather than peace, Chad might be facing a very different reality. His popularity, network, and legitimacy could have easily mobilized a powerful rebel army. But his rejection of violence is precisely what makes him a respected political figure—even behind bars.
Conclusion President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s regime is caught in a political and judicial trap, fueled by internal forces seeking to destabilize it. The repression of influential leaders like Dr. Masra and General Idriss Youssouf Boy only deepens the crisis. Now, with the emergence of the H23 movement, the Chadian people are declaring they will no longer be passive observers of their fate. Chad needs sincere dialogue, independent justice, and an open political space to avoid repeating history through bloodshed and division.
Signed: Charilogone Editorial Team
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