The recent decision of the Chadian government to expel the German ambassador has caused uproar in the diplomatic community. The move, which was announced last Friday, was reportedly due to the ambassador’s “discourteous attitude” and “disrespect of diplomatic customs.” However, no further details have been given on the matter.
In response to this expulsion, the German government announced on Tuesday that they would be expelling the Chadian ambassador to Berlin, Mariam Ali Moussa. This tit-for-tat action has only escalated tensions between the two countries and has been deemed “unjustified” by the German Foreign Ministry.
The European Union’s diplomatic service spokeswoman, Nabila Massrali, has called the Chadian government’s decision “regrettable” and a “particularly hostile gesture.” She went on to stress the importance of a rapid return to constitutional order and a time-limited transition that guarantees respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.
On their end, the Chadian government has accused the German ambassador of “interfering too much” in the “governance of the country” and making “comments tending to divide the Chadians.” However, the German Foreign Ministry has praised Ambassador Kricke’s commitment to human rights and the rapid transition to a civilian government in Chad.
This expulsion comes at a crucial time for Chad, which is currently undergoing a transition period following the death of former President Idriss Déby Itno. General Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno, his son, has promised to return power to civilians through “free and democratic elections” and not run for president himself. However, a national dialogue boycotted by much of the opposition and civil society designated him president of a “transition” extended by two years towards “transparent” elections.
