Chad Citizens Demand Withdrawal of French Troops
N’DJAMENA, Chad — On Friday, a significant number of individuals took to the streets of Chad to urge the expulsion of French military forces following the nation’s recent decision to terminate a defense agreement with France, its former colonial power. The rally in the capital, N’Djamena, was marked by chants from participants calling out “Chad for us, France out!” while many displayed signs declaring, “We do not want to see a single French person in Chad.”
The announcement of the termination of the military cooperation deal came last week, with Chad stating it aims to reassess its strategic alliances in harmony with the country’s current priorities. Currently, France has approximately 1,000 soldiers stationed in Chad, although the announcement did not specify a timeline for their withdrawal.
Protesters approached a military airbase where French troops are stationed, voicing their demand for the soldiers’ exit. Others congregated outside the French embassy, where they were met by a substantial contingent of Chadian military personnel ensuring the building’s security.
Dr. Hissein Massar, a former Minister of Public Health, expressed, “We no longer want the French presence in Chad. This protest will conclude once the French leave Chad.” His remarks resonate with the growing sentiment among Chadians who are increasingly discontented with foreign military presence.
Chad had previously been one of the few nations in the region to host a significant French military presence, particularly after France faced expulsion from other nations like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso amid ongoing battles against Islamic militants. In those countries, a shift toward closer alliances with Russia has emerged, with Russian mercenaries actively involved in the Sahel region, which is situated just south of the Sahara Desert.
The interim leadership in Chad, headed by Mahamat Deby Itno, came to power following the death of his father, who governed for over thirty years, during a confrontation with rebels in 2021. The government recently extended the transition period, initially set for 18 months, by an additional two years, prompting various protests across the nation.
Despite the end of the military agreement, Chad asserted that this decision does not undermine the historical connections with France and indicates a desire to continue collaborating in other areas of mutual interest.
