Chadian Rebel Groups Pose Threats to Military-Led Government, Risking Destabilization
Chadian rebel groups are once again challenging the authority of the military-led government, jeopardizing the stability of the country. This comes after another rebel group recently announced the termination of a 2021 ceasefire, prompting the interim president to relocate to the frontlines.
Tensions have resurfaced on Chad’s northern border with Libya, where clashes between rebels and the army had subsided following the death of President Idriss Deby in 2021 during a battle. In the aftermath, his son Mahamat Idriss Deby assumed power and embarked on a mission to restore peace. As part of this effort, he granted amnesty to numerous imprisoned rebels and encouraged various groups to engage in peace negotiations.
Last year, over 30 rebel and opposition factions signed a peace agreement with Chad’s transitional authorities in Doha. However, the most formidable insurgent group, the Libya-based Front for Change and Concord (FACT), refused to participate.
The situation took a setback recently when FACT accused authorities of bombing one of its bases, leading them to abandon the ceasefire declared in 2021. In response, President Deby claimed that the army had attacked after FACT rebels crossed into Chadian territory. He pledged to personally lead a battle against the group if they refused to lay down arms and stationed himself at the frontline for a week to oversee operations.
Adding to the concerns, another rebel group has now followed suit and expressed its determination to employ all necessary means to reinstate democracy in Chad. The Popular Front for Recovery issued a statement decrying the state of affairs, asserting that the country had fallen hostage to a horde of irresponsible individuals. They called upon all patriotic forces to unite for a national uprising.
The resurgence of hostilities in Chad poses a significant risk of destabilization, not only for the country but also for the broader Sahel region. Chad has long been a crucial ally of Western nations in their fight against Islamist militants operating in the area. However, efforts to counter these extremists have frequently been hampered by a series of coups in West and Central Africa, such as last month’s military takeover in Niger.
As the situation unfolds, it remains crucial to approach the predicament from multiple perspectives and strive for a balanced view. The impact of any escalation could be far-reaching, affecting the region’s security and stability. The international community must be vigilant and ready to support efforts aimed at resolving the conflict and promoting lasting peace in Chad.
[Reporting by Mahamat Ramadane; Writing by Sofia Christensen; editing by Grant McCool]
