Six leaders of Wakit Tama, a coalition of opposition and civil society (Chadian Arabic for “the time has come”) the main opposition alliance in Chad, are on trial for “disturbing public order” and “destroying property” after a demonstration on May 14 against French policy, which they accuse of supporting the ruling military junta.

Several rebel groups have since called for their release.

Security forces used excessive force during Wakit Tama’s protest.

Around 100 people were killed in clashes between artisanal gold miners in north Chad on May 23 and May 24.

Aljazeera.