First French base handed to Chad as withdrawal starts
France has officially handed over its first military base to Chad, as the former colonial power sees its international influence dwindle further.
According to Al-Jazeera, French troops left the base at Faya-Largeau on December 27th, officially handing it over to the Chadian authorities.
Chad’s military assured the public of their transparency over the withdrawal of French forces and promised to keep them informed of progress.
Only last month, Chad scrapped its defence cooperation agreement with Paris, paving the way for the total conclusion of French presence in the country.
READ: Chadian election officials ask military for protection
Though it only amounts to around 1000 troops, it is part of a wider rejection of former colonial ties in the Sahel region which is seen as a major strategic loss for France.
While Chad’s Foreign Minister said it was part of his country’s plan to “assert its full sovereignty”, according to AfricaNews, there are concerns that this may lead to further Russian influence in central Africa.
French troops have already left Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger following a series of military coups between 2021 and 2023, with each country in turn moving away from the West and into Russian orbit, according to Al-Jazeera.
Chad experienced a major civil conflict in 2021 that led to the death of President Idriss Deby and the promotion of his son Mahamat Deby to top spot.
READ: French army says it has begun withdrawal from Chad
At the time, French President Macron was an outspoken supporter of Mahamat Deby, attending his father’s funeral and calling Deby a “friend” and a “courageous leader”, according to DW.
Now Chad, that borders many countries with Russian troops including Libya, Niger and Sudan, has turned to Moscow in recent months, though any concrete agreements have not been reached.
Contrary to the West’s demands for democracy in Africa in return for security, Russia offers safety without interference in domestic politics, making Moscow an attractive partner for military juntas like Niger and Mali, according to AP.
Russia has also taken advantage of the anger against France’s colonial past in Francafrique, its historical record much less taboo on the continent.
Al-Jazeera, DW, AfricaNews, AP
