On 16 December 2023, Chad expelled four Sudanese diplomats on charges of interfering in the ongoing conflict in their country.
Diplomatic relations between Chad and Sudan are deteriorating again.
The two neighbours have been at loggerheads since a war broke out between the Sudanese armed forces and the Rapid Intervention Forces in April 2023.
Tensions reached a new level when Sudan recalled its ambassador to Ndjamena, Othman Mohamed, for consultations.
Khartoum accuses the Chadian authorities of ignoring its observations on the control of the border between the two countries. The ambassador has been recalled “for consultation on possible measures to be taken and to ensure that the regime in Ndjamena respects Sudan’s observations on border control,” the Sudan Tribune website reports.
According to this media outlet, which quotes a diplomatic source, Sudan had previously officially submitted specific notes to the Chadian government on border control. But Ndjamena had not commented or responded to these notes.
This tension is reminiscent of 2006-2008, when Chad accused Sudan of harbouring and arming Chadian rebels. The two countries ended up completely severing diplomatic ties.
With the war that has been tearing Sudan apart since April 2023, there is no shortage of accusations that Chad is interfering in the conflict.
In December, Ndjamena expelled four Sudanese diplomats.
This followed accusations of meddling made by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Sudanese Armed Forces General Staff.
CA/te/fss/as/APA