Controversial comments. The Chadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abderaman Koulamallah, deplored on Monday January 6 the “contemptuous attitude” of Emmanuel Macron. The President of the Republic considered that African leaders had “forgot to say thank you” to France for its intervention in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel.
The head of Chadian diplomacy recalled that “he has no problem with France” but that “French leaders must learn to respect the African people“.
He also underlined the “determining role” of Africa and Chad in the liberation of France during the two world wars” that “France never really recognized” as well as “the sacrifices made by African soldiers”.
“In 60 years of presence, the French contribution has often been limited to its own strategic interests, without any real lasting impact for the development of the Chadian people,” he continued.
“Totally wrong”
Other comments by Emmanuel Macron were singled out on Monday by Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko. He described on social networks as “totally erroneous” the assertion according to which the announced departure of a few hundred French soldiers from his country would follow to a proposal from Francewhich would have given the countries concerned by this reorganization of the French military presence the first opportunity to announce such withdrawals.
“No discussions or negotiations have taken place to date and the decision taken by Senegal stems from its sole will, as a free country, independent and sovereign” he said.
Last month, Senegal and Chad in turn announced the departure of French soldiers from their soil. In January, Ivory Coast also announced that the French military base at Port-Bouet near Abidjan would be handed over to the country.
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