Hisseine Abdoulaye, spokesperson for the opposition party Les Patriotes, convened a press conference this Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at their headquarters in Bololo, N’Djaména. He voiced strong criticism regarding Chad’s current political and security landscape, specifically condemning the recent conviction of eight prominent leaders from political parties affiliated with the GCAP (Groupe de concertation des acteurs politiques). In a resolute opening statement, the party asserted that Chad is grappling with a multifaceted crisis characterized by escalating insecurity, communal tensions, and a significant erosion of public freedoms.
Les Patriotes first highlighted the deteriorating security situation, particularly within the Lake Chad basin, where Boko Haram assaults against the Chadian army have become increasingly frequent. They also drew attention to the deadly inter-communal clashes in the eastern part of the country, notably in Wadi Fira, which have claimed dozens of lives. According to party officials, these ongoing crises starkly reveal the vulnerabilities within the national security apparatus, thereby intensifying the pervasive climate of instability.
Addressing the political sphere, Les Patriotes vehemently denounced what they described as the government’s “authoritarian tightening.” The party cited several concerning incidents, including the assassination of Yaya Dillo, the detention of Succès Masra, and most recently, the sentencing of the eight GCAP leaders to eight years of strict imprisonment. The party’s declaration suggests that these convictions are calculated efforts to silence critical voices and weaken the political opposition.
Furthermore, Les Patriotes claimed that the legal proceedings initiated against the GCAP officials were conducted with unusual haste. They explicitly accused the public prosecutor, the Ministry of Territorial Administration, and the Supreme Court of orchestrating a coordinated campaign designed to politically neutralize the now-dissolved political coalition.
Party leaders from Les Patriotes meticulously challenged each accusation levied against the convicted leaders, including charges of illegal assembly, criminal association, insurrection, rebellion, and unlawful possession of weapons. They maintained that the evidence presented by the prosecution lacked any substantial material basis, labeling some of the alleged offenses as entirely fabricated.
During their declaration, the organizers of the press conference issued an urgent appeal to the international community, human rights organizations, and advocates for the rule of law to closely monitor the developments of this critical case. They demanded the immediate and unconditional release of the eight imprisoned leaders, as well as all other political prisoners.
Finally, Les Patriotes called for widespread citizen mobilization, fostering dialogue, and promoting national unity. Their aim is to safeguard democracy and prevent a further escalation of political and security tensions across the nation.
