Chad’s interim President Mahamat Idriss Deby has threatened to withdraw from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) due to its failure to effectively address rising insurgency threats in the Lake Chad region. This decision follows a deadly attack by Boko Haram militants, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 40 Chadian soldiers, raising urgent questions about the coalition’s effectiveness and the need for a unified response to ongoing violence in the area.
In a critical move, Deby has signaled a potential withdrawal from the MNJTF, citing its ineffectiveness in tackling these threats. This announcement was made during a visit to the area, which spans parts of western Chad, Nigeria, Niger, and Cameroon.
Deby’s remarks come in the aftermath of the attack that left around 40 Chadian soldiers dead. In response to this violence, the president has ordered the commencement of a new military operation targeting the insurgents responsible.
During his address, Deby raised concerns about the operational challenges faced by the MNJTF, including a lack of cooperation and growing divisions among the coalition’s member states. He described the current state of the joint force as a “slump,” emphasizing that it was initially established to consolidate efforts and intelligence against common threats.
The potential withdrawal of Chad from the MNJTF could deal a significant blow to the coalition, given that the Chadian armed forces are highly regarded for their capability in the region. Deby underscored the pressing need for coordinated efforts to combat the ongoing violence from groups like Boko Haram, which have intensified their activities across the Lake Chad basin.
As of now, there has been no official reaction from Nigeria, Niger, or Cameroon regarding Deby’s statements, raising concerns about the future of regional security efforts in the face of escalating insurgent activity.
