Masra, widely seen as a rising political force in the country, began the protest to draw attention to what he described as an “unjust detention” following Chad’s controversial presidential elections earlier this year.
Geopolitical analyst Aaron Ng’ambi said the move was a calculated effort to shine a light on the state of political repression in the country.
“He went on hunger strike not only to protest his incarceration but to mobilise continental awareness around the injustice,” said Ng’ambi. “Though his physical health deteriorated, the message was clear, he was willing to risk everything to expose the crackdown on dissent.”
Masra's imprisonment sparked criticism from both regional observers and civil society groups, many of whom argue that the charges against him were designed to silence political opposition.
The former Prime Minister’s defiance has earned him growing support, especially among younger voters, and could set the stage for more robust political engagement in Chad, where space for opposition has long been constrained.
--ChannelAfrica--