Chad Accuses Sudan of Supporting Rebel Forces to Destabilize Its Government
Chad has accused Sudan of arming and financing rebel groups to destabilize its government. The rebels, part of the Zaghawa ethnic group, are reportedly operating from Sudan’s El Facher region. The conflict arises amid ongoing tensions due to historical confrontations and Sudan’s internal civil strife that has resulted in a humanitarian crisis.
On Friday, Chad formally accused Sudan of providing military support and financial aid to rebel groups operating within Chadian borders, with the intent to undermine the stability of Chad. The Chadian government specifically pointed to the involvement of the Zaghawa ethnic group, which is reportedly active in Sudan’s El Facher region. Abderaman Koulamallah, the foreign affairs minister of Chad, stated that “Sudan is financing and arming terrorist groups operating in the sub-region with the aim of destabilising Chad.” These rebel forces are led by Ousman Dillo, the brother of the deceased Chadian opposition leader Yaya Dillo Djerou, who was killed by Chadian military forces earlier this year. The historical context reveals that the Zaghawa had previously attempted to seize control in Chad, capturing the capital in a failed coup against then-President Idriss Deby Itno in 2008, a situation that ultimately forced him into hiding before being aided by French forces. The political landscape in Chad shifted significantly following the death of Idriss Deby Itno in 2021, due to combat operations against rebel factions near the Libyan border, leading to his son, Mahamat Idriss Deby, assuming the presidency. The ongoing violence in Sudan’s civil war, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has exacerbated regional tensions. In a reciprocal accusation, the Sudanese authorities have claimed that Chad has interfered in the Sudanese conflict by allegedly supplying arms to the RSF, a claim that both Chad and the UAE have denied.
The accusations of Chad against Sudan arise amid a crisis marked by a long-standing relationship between the two nations characterized by conflict and mutual suspicion. The Zaghawa ethnic group, prominent in both countries, has been a focal point in the ongoing geopolitical tensions. Sudan’s instability, worsened by a civil war pitting the army against RSF, has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, as it has led to thousands of deaths and significant displacement within the region.
In conclusion, the fresh accusations from Chad toward Sudan signal escalating tensions between the two nations, emphasizing the significant impact of ethnic conflicts and historical grievances in the region. The international community remains vigilant regarding the evolving situation, particularly in light of the humanitarian implications and the volatile security environment that continues to affect both Chad and Sudan.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
